September 2026: Alcohol ban at train stations and new consumer rights
As of September 1, several regulatory changes will come into effect in Germany that directly affect everyday life. An alcohol ban will apply from this day at Berlin Central Station, Berlin-Gesundbrunnen, Kiel, and Braunschweig. It covers consumption on platforms and in station concourses. Exemptions include serving alcohol in licensed station restaurants; original sealed bottles in bags, for example after shopping at a station supermarket, remain permitted. Checks will be carried out by DB security personnel and the Federal Police. Anyone caught drinking must expect an immediate expulsion from the premises, and repeated violations may lead to a permanent ban.
The rule is already in effect at around 30 major train stations, and it is set to be extended to all 5,400 stations by mid-October.
Also starting September 1, income tax assistance associations are allowed to advise more people. The previous income limits for so-called surplus income—such as from renting, leasing, or capital assets—have been abolished. Previously, the limit was 18,000 euros for singles and 36,000 euros for married couples; those exceeding this were not permitted to receive advice there. For many households, an income tax assistance association is the most affordable way to get help with their tax returns.
From September 27, two new EU-wide uniform labels will apply in retail. The warranty label points to the legal entitlement of at least two years for free repair or replacement in the event of defects—regardless of whether the retailer offers an additional guarantee. If the manufacturer provides a durability guarantee that goes beyond this, they must indicate it with the so-called Garan label. On the same day, stricter rules for environmental and climate advertising will come into force: terms such as "environmentally friendly" or "climate neutral" may no longer be used without explanation and reliable evidence.