Am I allowed to place items on my parking space in a garage

Am I allowed to place items on my parking space in a garage?
Many owners or tenants of a parking space in an underground garage wonder: can I also place items there, such as bicycles, tires, cabinets, or boxes? The short answer is: usually not without permission. Even if the parking space is private property, there are often clear rules regarding fire safety and usage.
Is a parking space intended solely for parking?
In most apartment buildings, a parking space is described in the deed of division as a vehicle standing space. This means that its designated use is limited to parking a vehicle. Using it as a storage space is therefore generally not permitted.
Even if you own the parking spot, you cannot simply change its designated use. The Owners Association (VME) can take action if these rules are violated.
What do fire safety regulations say about storage in a garage?
Fire safety is the primary reason why storage in garages is often prohibited. Underground car parks must comply with strict safety standards. Extra storage increases the fire load and can hinder evacuation.
Items such as:
- Cardboard boxes
- Furniture
- Flammable liquids
- Spare tires
- Wooden cabinets
can increase the risk of fire or accelerate smoke development. Therefore, many internal rules explicitly prohibit placing items on parking spaces.
Are you allowed to place anything at all on your parking space?
Small items directly related to the vehicle, such as winter tires or a bicycle rack, are sometimes tolerated as long as they are placed safely and tidily. However, this varies greatly per building.
What is usually not allowed:
- Storage of flammable materials
- Locked cabinets or shelves without permission
- Structural modifications
- Converting the parking space into a storage unit
If you require extra storage space, a private cellar storage unit is the appropriate place.
What can the Owners Association do in case of a violation?
If items on a parking space violate the internal rules, the Owners Association or Property Manager can address the owner or tenant. In some cases, one may be required to remove the items. Repeated violations can even lead to sanctions.
The rules are not there to be a nuisance, but to guarantee safety and order in the communal garage.
What is the conclusion?
A parking space in a garage is essentially intended for parking a vehicle, not as a storage area. Placing items on your parking space is often prohibited due to fire safety regulations and the designated use of the space. Always check the deed of division and the internal rules of your building before storing anything on your parking spot. This helps avoid disputes and contributes to a safe parking environment for everyone.
Your parking space is for your car — your cellar is for the rest.
