German law permits garden camping on private land but limits large tents

In Germany, setting up a tent and sleeping in it on your own garden is generally allowed without any permission, provided the tent is small and only stays temporarily. No permit is required for ordinary family-sized tents.

If a tent exceeds 75 square metres in floor area or 5 metres in height, it is classified as a “flying structure.” Such tents may be erected for up to three months without a permit; longer stays or larger dimensions require a building permission from the local building authority. Larger tents must obtain a permit from the start.

Camping on someone else's garden without the owner’s consent constitutes trespass and is punishable under German law. Wild camping in forests or parks is also frequently prohibited, limiting camping to private properties or designated campsites.