They’ve become a familiar sight across Germany — cardboard boxes labeled “Zu verschenken” (“free to take”) filled with unwanted household items. Old books, glassware, or toys waiting for a new home. The idea seems harmless — even kind.
But in many German cities, these boxes can lead to hefty fines, because under municipal law, placing them on public property is often considered illegal waste disposal.
What began as a gesture of goodwill can quickly become an expensive mistake.
When a “gift” becomes illegal dumping
According to the German Association of Municipal Enterprises (VKU), problems arise when giveaway boxes contain items that are no longer usable — or when people start adding actual trash.
“If the contents are unsellable or broken, it’s considered an illegal dumping site,” a VKU spokesperson explained.
Municipal cleaning crews must then collect and dispose of the items, and those clean-up costs can be passed on to tenants living in the building adjacent to where the box was left.
The amount of the fine varies depending on the materials involved. For example, leaving electronic devices can result in penalties of up to €5,000, while in some municipalities, even books or glassware left on the pavement are classified as unauthorized waste deposits.
In Berlin and several other German cities, authorities are tightening enforcement — fines of up to €11,000 could soon apply to such “free gifts.”
Why it’s considered an offense
Legally, sidewalks, pavements, and public spaces fall under municipal jurisdiction. Placing anything on them without approval — even temporarily — constitutes a “special use” of public ground that requires prior permission.
Without that permission, such acts fall under Ordnungswidrigkeit (administrative offense). While authorities in the past often “looked the other way”, stricter rules are now being enforced due to rising waste volumes and blocked pedestrian paths.
How to do it legally: ask first
Anyone who still wants to leave a giveaway box legally can apply for a special use permit from their local public order office (Ordnungsamt).
If approved, the box may remain on the sidewalk for a few days, though a small administrative fee might apply.
Authorities generally tolerate such boxes if they don’t obstruct footpaths or fire access routes, and if it’s clear that usable items, not rubbish, are being offered.
Still, they recommend removing the box after a short period — especially in busy residential areas — to avoid misunderstandings or complaints.
Safer alternatives for giving things away
Those who want to declutter without legal risk have several options:
- Private property: Placing the box in your own yard, driveway or courtyard is completely legal.
- Shared spaces: A stairwell or apartment entrance can be used, but residents should ask the landlord or homeowners’ association first.
- Online platforms: Websites such as nebenan.de or Kleinanzeigen.de offer dedicated “free to give” categories, connecting donors directly with people nearby.
These digital options not only help avoid fines but also ensure items reach people who actually want them — without cluttering public spaces.
The bottom line
Germany’s crackdown on “Zu verschenken” boxes may sound harsh, but it reflects growing urban waste concerns and the cost of public clean-up operations.
The rule is simple: if it’s on the street, it’s the city’s problem — and possibly your fine.
Generosity is welcome, authorities say, but it should happen within the law and within private spaces.
So next time you think about placing a box on the curb, consider your options carefully — your kind gesture might otherwise cost you up to €11,000.
