FootpathGermany
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Germany. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
7. Footpath
A footpath is a path or part of a road intended primarily for pedestrian traffic. It may run alongside a road, through a park or residential area, or independently from roads used by motor vehicles.
A footpath may be reserved exclusively for pedestrians or may form part of a shared route with cyclists or other permitted users. Access, priority and permitted users depend on the traffic signs and local regulations applying to the path.
Wikimedia.org • Velopilger • CC BY-SA
What does Germany’s blue circular pedestrian-path sign mean?
It marks a Gehweg, reserved for pedestrians under the sign’s rules. Ordinary vehicle traffic must not use it unless an additional sign permits an exception. A combined walking and cycling sign or a divided-path sign has different rules.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§2(5),25; Annex 2, sign 239
Mandatory path for pedestrians.
English • Traffic sign 239 • Footpath.
Deutsch • Verkehrszeichen 239 • Gehweg.
🔗 Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Verwaltungsvorschriften-im-internet.de • VzKat, Anhang (Gesamtübersicht)
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
first datas: Andreas 06. Nach den amtlichen Vorgaben 2017 komplett neu digital umgesetzt durch: Mediatus • Public domain • Source revision 2017-09-01. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Can children and their supervisors cycle on German pavements?
Children under eight must use the pavement, or may use a physically separated cycle path. Children aged eight or nine may use the pavement. A suitable supervisor, normally at least 16, may accompany an under-eight child there. Protect pedestrians; dismount before crossing a carriageway from the pavement.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§2(5),25; Annex 2, sign 239
What if a German pedestrian path expressly permits cyclists?
The permission does not remove pedestrian protection. Permitted riders must yield to pedestrians, avoid endangering or obstructing them, and travel at walking pace. Wait if necessary. This supplementary permission is different from a path designated jointly for walking and cycling.
🔗 gesetze-im-internet.de • Germany StVO: §§2(5),25; Annex 2, sign 239

Traffic rules
Germany