Germany has introduced a law on when you can and can’t make noise – with particular emphasis on Sundays and public holidays when the entire day is designated as ‘quiet hours’.
A central European nation has introduced laws to control noise pollution, with a particular emphasis on maintaining tranquillity on Sundays. The Ruhezeit, or “quiet hours”, are periods when citizens are expected to keep the noise down and allow others some peace.
During weekdays and Saturdays, these quiet hours typically run from 10pm to 6am, but on Sundays and public holidays, they extend throughout the entire day. So, what does this mean for those who fancy cranking up their music?
Residents are advised to keep garden or balcony conversations and any music at “a low volume,” during these quiet hours – a warning to all musicians out there. They’re also urged to restrict noisy DIY activities to non-quiet hour periods – so much for a Sunday spent renovating the house!
There are, however, some exceptions. Those wishing to host a party during quiet hours are advised to notify their neighbours in advance, or better yet, invite them. It seems to be a case of common courtesy being codified into law. According to Germans, fostering good relationships with neighbours is the best way to navigate the quiet hours without issue.
Sundays in Germany remain a true day of rest, reminiscent of the UK in the early 1980s. German Sunday laws stipulate that supermarkets are closed on Sundays, with only a few businesses such as restaurants, museums, galleries and cafés remaining open.
Those who ignore the quiet rules could face a warning or penalty from their landlord or council, and persistent offenders may even receive a visit from the police.