Water abstraction prohibited in Jena

The withdrawal of water from surface waters such as springs, running waters and standing waters is now prohibited by general decree in the city of Jena. This does not apply to the watering of livestock. Permits under water law that allow water to be taken from surface waters will be revoked for a limited period until this general ruling expires.

The city of Jena has decided to take this step because, due to the low rainfall in recent weeks, some streams in the city area are currently only carrying a small amount of water and in some cases no water at all. Withdrawing water to irrigate private gardens would further exacerbate the situation, which would have lasting negative consequences for fish, other aquatic organisms and the adjacent riparian vegetation.

The unauthorized withdrawal of water constitutes an administrative offence and can be punished with a fine of up to €50,000. The lower water authority will carry out more checks on surface waters in the city of Jena.

The general decree on the restriction of water abstraction from watercourses in the city of Jena applies from the date of publication in the official gazette (16.08.2019) and expires at the end of October 31, 2019.