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Darmstadt eases election rules ahead of March’s political frenzy

Campaigners in Darmstadt just got a major boost. As March’s high-stakes elections near, the city scraps red tape—but will others follow?

At the bottom of the image there is a road with cars and a bus. Behind them there are buildings...
At the bottom of the image there is a road with cars and a bus. Behind them there are buildings with walls, windows, dish and roofs. And also there are posters and banners to the walls. There is a pole with streetlight.

Darmstadt Simplifies the Erection of Election Posters - Darmstadt eases election rules ahead of March’s political frenzy

Darmstadt has relaxed its rules on elections ahead of the March madness. From January 15, political groups and individuals no longer need permits to display campaign materials outside built-up areas. Meanwhile, other regions in Germany are maintaining stricter controls under existing traffic laws.

The change in Darmstadt aligns with Section 33 of Germany’s Road Traffic Act, which governs advertising near roads. Previously, parties and candidates had to seek official approval before placing posters outside urban zones. Now, the city has removed this requirement, simplifying the process for campaigners.

Darmstadt’s move removes bureaucratic hurdles for campaigners before the March madness. Other regions, however, continue to enforce permit systems and safety checks. The differences highlight how local authorities interpret national traffic laws when balancing elections advertising with road safety.

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