No Stopping or Parking
The sign indicates a prohibition against stopping and parking vehicles.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you should keep driving without stopping at the roadside to drop off or pick up passengers or to park. You may only stop if it is absolutely necessary, for example in an emergency or if the police/another authority orders you to stop.
Rules & Regulations
- The sign means that stopping and parking vehicles is prohibited at the location where the sign applies.
- The prohibition applies from the sign until it is lifted by the end of the restricted zone, a corresponding sign that cancels the prohibition, or other clear marking/signage.
- You may only stop if it is absolutely necessary, for example in an emergency, to avert immediate danger, or when you are ordered to stop by the police or other traffic authorities.
- Exceptions for emergency vehicles (ambulance, police, fire brigade) in service apply according to special regulations; otherwise the prohibition covers all described vehicle types unless a supplementary plate indicates otherwise.
Tips for Drivers
- Learn to distinguish this sign (no stopping/no parking) from 'No parking' — here you are not even allowed to stop briefly for dropping off or picking up passengers.
- Look for supplementary plates with arrows or times; they indicate the length of the zone or when the prohibition specifically applies.
- Plan where to stop or drop off people in advance when driving in built-up areas with such signs — look for parking bays or areas without the restriction.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that short stops to drop off or pick up passengers are allowed — with this sign even such short stops are normally prohibited.
- Confusing it with the 'no parking only' sign (C38) — C38 allows short stops for dropping off/picking up, C39 does not.
- Failing to pay attention to supplementary plates that limit the prohibition in time or place and therefore making incorrect stops.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: No Stopping or Parking
What should you keep in mind here?
- A Neither stopping nor parking is allowed at this location (emergency stops only).
- B Parking is prohibited but short stops for boarding and alighting are allowed.
- C Only motor vehicle traffic is prohibited; bicycles may stop.
- D This is a parking zone where parking is allowed without restriction.
Exam Tip
A common theory test question area is distinguishing C39 from C38: if the question concerns 'stopping briefly to drop off a passenger', it is prohibited at C39 but allowed at C38 (unless otherwise indicated). Be precise in your answer.
Did You Know?
Sign C39 is often used in city centers near tight intersections, stops, and entrances to major streets to keep traffic flow and visibility clear — it was introduced to reduce stops that cause congestion and traffic hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stop briefly to drop off my friend at this sign?
No, with the 'No stopping and no parking' sign even short stops for dropping off or picking up are normally prohibited. You must find a place where the restriction does not apply.
Does the prohibition apply to the entire side of the road or just a point?
The prohibition applies from the sign until it is lifted by another sign or the end of the zone. Supplementary plates with arrows show the exact section that is affected.
What should I do if my car breaks down under such a sign?
If you have to stop because of a breakdown or other emergency you may stop, but you should immediately take steps to remove the vehicle and place a warning triangle if appropriate.
Does the sign also apply to loading and unloading?
Yes, normally loading/unloading is not allowed where C39 applies, unless a supplementary plate specifically grants an exception for certain times or vehicles.
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