Water abstraction from streams and rivers currently prohibited
With immediate effect*, the Environment Agency of the City of Chemnitz prohibits the abstraction of water by means of pumps or pipes/hoses from above-ground bodies of water in the territory of the City of Chemnitz for personal use (owner and neighbourhood use). This applies up to and including 30 September 2023. The drawing of water with hand containers, which is classified as public use, remains unaffected by the general ruling and is still permitted if the water supply is sufficient.
Due to the ongoing drought, the water levels in Chemnitz's waterways are currently low again. As a result, water-dependent plants and animals are at risk. Low water levels and rising water temperatures reduce the oxygen content of the water. This reduces the self-cleaning capacity of the waters. More algae grow. Fish and microorganisms die. Pumping or draining water from streams exacerbates this situation. Localised rain showers and thunderstorms do little to ease the low water situation. In addition, experience shows that in many places where water is pumped, unauthorised dams or pump sumps are built to collect and drain the water.
If violations are detected during water inspections, this can be punished as an administrative offence and result in a fine of up to 50,000 euros.
The Lower Water Authority of the Environmental Agency is also available to answer questions about the applicable water legislation by telephone on 0371 488-3651 or by email at umweltamt.wasser(at)stadt-chemnitz.de.
* The general ruling comes into force upon public announcement in the official gazette.