Permit-exempt (called “approval-free” in some state building codes) means that no building permit application is required for the project. However, this does not release you from the obligation to comply with substantive building law – setback distances from neighbouring properties, the local development plan, local design bylaws, and heritage and nature protection rules continue to apply.
For containers, permit exemption depends on the federal state. Roughly speaking: a storage containers up to a certain gross volume (often 30–75 m³, depending on the state) is often permit-exempt on private land. A container for permanent human occupancy (office, living) virtually always requires a permit, as does placement in undeveloped outer areas (Außenbereich).
All cases by federal state: Shipping container building permit.
Last updated: 8 September 2026 · Editor: Coin Container Team, Hamburg