Landesstraßen

Landesstraßen are a class of public roads in Germany designated and maintained by the individual states (Länder). They form a middle tier in the road network, situated between federal roads (Bundesstraßen) and district or municipal roads, and they primarily serve regional and local traffic by connecting towns, villages, and rural areas within a state.

In Germany, Landesstraßen complement Autobahnen and Bundesstraßen by providing access to smaller towns and rural regions and by linking major routes. The exact network, numbering, and signage of Landesstraßen are administered by state transport authorities, and the conventions can vary from state to state. Many states designate these roads with a state-specific prefix or numbering system, and the official designations are reflected in local signage.

Maintenance and funding for Landesstraßen are the responsibility of the state governments, with some segments possibly managed in cooperation with municipalities under agreement. Investments typically cover paving, repairs, safety improvements, and traffic management measures. The standards for construction and operation are aligned with national and European guidelines, though specifics can differ by state.

Landesstraßen can be reclassified over time through administrative processes. They may be downgraded to Kreisstraßen if traffic volumes decline or administrative reorganizations occur, or, less frequently, upgraded to Bundesstraßen if national-level significance is identified and appropriate funding is available.

Overall, Landesstraßen play a crucial role in regional mobility, supporting local economies, commuting, and tourism. They help connect smaller communities to larger transport corridors while integrating with broader transport planning and safety requirements across the country.