City decides on new rules against drug use, aggressive begging and alcohol abuse in public space
The science city of Darmstadt decided on April 2, 2025 in the magistrate to adapt the urban prevention convention - combined with a renaming to the hazard defense regulation. The goal is a stronger handling against orderly behavior in public space. The city is thus responding to increasing symptoms from the population and retail.
New rules to protect public order
The changes only affect drug use , aggressive begging and alcohol consumption . the consumption of laughing gas on playgrounds, green areas and in the pedestrian zone of the city center . ban on sales to minors also currently being examined.
Another central point is the ban on alcohol in the waiting houses on Luisenplatz . These are often occupied by drunk people and therefore hardly usable for many citizens - especially older people, families or adolescents. The aim of the measure is to make more secure and more accessible to all generations
Regulation against direct response when begging
In the future, begging will also be by direct response in central urban areas. This goes back to numerous feedback from the retail industry . The new regulation applies in addition to the existing ban on aggressive begging and is intended to contribute to a pleasant shopping experience and a respectful cooperation in public space .
Combination of prevention and repression
Head of Order Paul Georg Wandrey emphasizes the need for a consistent approach:
"Public order can only remain preserved if preventive measures also have repressive consequences if necessary. The aim is to make Darmstadt a safe and livable place for everyone."
The new danger defense regulation is the result of a broad process with the regulatory authorities and comes into force after a legal examination.
Further information will be published on www.darmstadt.de .
(Darmstadt - Red/PSDS/DK)
