New catalog of fines partially ineffective

With effect from April 28, 2020, the 54th Ordinance amending road traffic regulations came into force. Article 3 of this ordinance made extensive changes to the Ordinance on Fines. As already reported in various media reports, this amendment was subject to a formal error. Parts of the catalog of fines, in particular the imposition of driving bans, thus became null and void.

Several federal ministries, led by the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI), are currently examining the legal consequences for the further handling of the traffic offenses that are still being processed. It is certain that the already legally binding fine notices and proceedings concluded by payment up to a fine of €250 cannot be resumed.

However, the city administration of Jena is endeavoring to process parking and speeding violations in a legally secure manner. For this reason, Lord Mayor Dr. Thomas Nitzsche and Benjamin Koppe, the department head responsible for public order, have decided to apply the catalog of fines valid until 27.04.2020 until a uniform nationwide regulation is in place.

Mayor Nitzsche said: "There must be no doubts about regulations. That is why, in consultation with department head Koppe and the legal department, I have ordered the suspension of the new catalog of fines."

Head of department Koppe added: "We want there to be legal certainty for everyone and for the local court not to be overwhelmed with appeals."

The staff at the fines office will be happy to provide information on this to citizens affected by administrative offense proceedings. Due to the corona pandemic, we ask that you only contact the fines office by telephone, e-mail or letter.