Overview

• The ban covers all surface-water sources within Frankfurt’s boundaries, including the Nidda and its side channels, while exempting the Main River and holders of separate water-rights permits.
• Frankfurt’s Lower Water and Soil Protection Authority issued the general decree on Tuesday, making it effective immediately and valid through October 31 unless lifted earlier.
• Violators of the prohibition face fines, and the measure has been published in the city’s official gazette and on the environmental agency’s website.
• Below-average spring rainfall and ongoing heat have driven some streams to dry beds or trickles, and July rains failed to replenish the dwindling flows.
• The city administration is urging citizens to curb nonessential water use and has launched its “Frankfurt spart Wasser!” campaign with practical conservation tips online.