German towns gain power to set stricter local speed limits

A quiet revolution in traffic policy is unfolding in Germany. Towns like Schneverdingen are now free to slow down drivers—and save lives.

, and Administrator

2025 November 22 . 8:51 PM

1 min read

In the image we can see there is a red colour double decker bus on the road and its written "City... — In the image we can see there is a red colour double decker bus on the road and its written "City Bus" on it. There is a traffic cone kept on the road and behind there is a hill.

German towns gain power to set stricter local speed limits

A recent change in traffic law has given German towns more control over local speed limits. The updated Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) now allow municipalities to set 30 km/h zones more freely. Schneverdingen, a town in Heidekreis, is already exploring how to use these new powers to improve road safety near schools and kindergartens.

The Bundesrat amended the StVO to grant towns greater flexibility in managing traffic speeds. While the law has faced criticism—particularly from the General German Bicycle Club for not going far enough—it still opens new possibilities for local authorities. Schneverdingen, the first municipality in Heidekreis to join the Livable Cities through Appropriate Speeds initiative, is now reviewing the legal changes with support from Stadtwerke Soltau.

The updated StVO gives Schneverdingen and other towns more authority over local traffic policies. With legal analysis underway, the town plans to move quickly on implementing lower speed zones where needed. Residents can stay informed on developments through the free Heidekreis newsletter, which provides weekly updates.