Parking Fines in Germany: What They Cost, the Rules You Need to Know – and How to Avoid Them

Parking tickets, parking discs, fines. Few things ruin your mood faster than finding a note under your windshield wiper. But how much does a parking violation cost in Germany? When does it apply – and what should you pay attention to so it doesn’t happen in the first place?

Here’s the complete overview – with prices, rules, and practical tips to help you avoid fines. Spoiler: It’s all about electronic parking discs and common sense.

The Most Common Reasons for Parking Tickets and Fines

  • Exceeding the parking duration or forgetting the parking disc
    In Germany, you must set the parking disc to the next half hour after your arrival. Example: Arrival at 1:10 p.m. → Set the disc to 1:30 p.m. A handwritten note does not replace the disc.
  • No parking ticket where required
  • Parking in a residents-only zone without a permit – these areas have their own rules
  • Unauthorized parking: too close to intersections or driveways, on sidewalks, bike lanes, or double-parked
  • Private parking lots, e.g., supermarket lots with time limits – those who overstay or forget a disc risk contractual penalties

In short: signs and supplementary symbols are your best friends. If you’re unsure, choose another parking spot.

How Much Does a Parking Violation Cost?

In Germany, there is a difference between warning fines (usually €5–€55) and penalty fines (in cases of obstruction or danger, sometimes with penalty points).

Without or incorrectly set parking disc (public space)

  • up to 30 minutes: €20
  • up to 1 hour: €25
  • up to 2 hours: €30
  • up to 3 hours: €35
  • over 3 hours: €40

Other examples

  • Double parking: €55
  • With obstruction or danger: €80–€90 + 1 point

In such cases, vehicles may be towed immediately if they block an entrance, stand on bike or pedestrian paths, or obstruct traffic.

Private parking lots: Contractual penalties depend on the operator and can be significantly higher. Operators may also tow vehicles at the owner’s expense in severe cases.

Signs and Markings You Should Know

  • With “Parking Disc” (Parkscheibe): Parking allowed but only with a disc for the specified time
  • Residents’ parking: Only with a valid permit; supplementary signs show times and exceptions
  • No stopping/parking zones: Observe intersection distances and markings
  • Managed parking areas: “Only with parking ticket” or time indications (“2 hrs, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.”)

If you read and follow the supplementary signs, you’re usually on the safe side.

Electronic Parking Disc: Your New Best Friend

If you often forget your parking disc, an electronic parking disc can help. These are allowed in Germany if they have official type approval.

Important:

  • The display automatically sets itself to your arrival time
  • It must not continue running after parking
  • The display must show the arrival time in 24-hour format with digits at least 2 cm high
  • It must be clearly visible on the windshield

The OOONO P-DISC NO3 is a type-approved electronic parking disc that always sets itself correctly – no stress, no fines.

Just Away From the Car for a Moment? About the “Observation Time”

The often-mentioned “grace minute” does not exist. Authorities may issue a fine immediately for clear violations. If you have no ticket or disc, a fine can be issued right away.

Multiple Tickets for the Same Violation?

In public areas, you usually receive only one warning fine for the same parking offense. If the vehicle remains unmoved for a long time, it may be relocated or towed.

On private property, the operator’s rules apply – multiple checks or towing may occur.

Summary: How to Avoid Parking Fines

  • Always set your parking disc to the next half hour
  • Read supplementary signs carefully (times, max duration, exceptions)
  • Buy a parking ticket where required – mobile parking apps are allowed in most cities
  • Never park double, on sidewalks or bike paths, or too close to intersections
  • Check conditions on private parking lots – contractual penalties may apply
  • Use an electronic parking disc like the OOONO P-DISC NO3

Overview: Typical Fines in Germany

Violation Amount
Missing/incorrect parking disc €20–€40
Double parking approx. €55
With obstruction/danger €80–€90 + 1 point + possible towing fees
Private parking lot (e.g., supermarket) Contractual penalty per operator

Can You Contest a Fine?

  • There is no legal remedy against a simple warning fine
  • If you do not pay, a formal penalty procedure begins – this can be appealed
  • Warnings usually expire after 3 months if no procedure is initiated

Conclusion: Better to Park Smart Than Pay Fines

Parking fines are something everyone wants to avoid – but almost everyone gets one at some point. Fortunately, with a bit of attention and a smart helper like an electronic parking disc, you can avoid them easily.

With the OOONO P-DISC NO3, you’re perfectly equipped and stay relaxed – even when the parking warden is just around the corner.