ADVERTISING
The city adopts new rules against drug use, aggressive begging and alcohol abuse in public spaces
On April 2, 2025, the city council of Darmstadt approved an amendment to its municipal prevention convention, renaming it a public safety ordinance. The aim is to strengthen enforcement against disorderly conduct in public spaces. This is the city's response to increasing complaints from residents and retailers.
New rules to protect public order
The changes primarily affect drug use , aggressive begging , and alcohol consumption . For example, the use of nitrous oxide in playgrounds, parks, and the pedestrian zone in the city center . A sales ban to minors is also currently under review.
Another key point is the alcohol ban in the bus shelters on Luisenplatz . These are frequently occupied by intoxicated individuals, making them practically unusable for many citizens – especially the elderly, families, and young people. The aim of this measure is to make public spaces safer and more accessible for all generations .
Regulation against directly approaching people while begging
, soliciting by directly approaching people will also be prohibited in central city areas. This follows numerous reports from the retail sector . The new regulation applies in addition to the existing ban on aggressive begging and is intended to contribute to a pleasant shopping experience and respectful coexistence in public spaces .
Combination of prevention and repression
Head of Public Order Paul Georg Wandrey emphasizes the need for a consistent approach:
"Public order can only be maintained if preventive measures are followed, when necessary, by repressive measures. The goal is to make Darmstadt a safe and livable place for everyone."
The new public safety ordinance is the result of a broadly coordinated process with the regulatory authorities and will come into force after legal review.
Further information will be published at www.darmstadt.de .
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSDS/dk)
