Overview

• A general decree taking effect July 1 bans outdoor feeding of pets and birds and requires secure storage of food and regular waste removal.
• Violators of the new regulations face administrative fines of up to €25,000.
• District officials cited unsuccessful poison baiting efforts as justification for imposing stricter controls on waste and feeding practices.
• Wanderratten observed at Hermannplatz can carry more than 100 infectious diseases, including hepatitis, tuberculosis and salmonella.
• Proximity to open-air markets, U-Bahn stations and high foot traffic has created an ideal environment for rat proliferation and increased health risks.