Germans love laws. They are well organized and very strict, so they create rules and regulations to keep the system well regulated. The German justice system is full of good things, criticisms, and also curious nooks and crannies. Let’s check them out!
#1. It Is Forbidden to Play the Piano at Midnight
Germans love silence, and that is why they invent various laws, rules, and regulations to maintain it. For example, the government decided that playing or practicing instruments in rented apartments is only allowed between 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. So when inspiration strikes, you have to look at the clock first!
#2.No Sand Castles
In Kiel, on the Baltic Sea, and on the island of Sylt, it is forbidden to build sandcastles on the North Sea beach. What a party pooper!
#3. You Can Get a Ticket By Saying “du” to a Police Officer
Whenever you talk to a police officer, you should be polite. That’s is logical since they represent authority (yes, you can be nice and express your opinions or be contrary). If you forgot that point of kindness, or even talk to German police officers in the second person, they will kindly remind you with a little recipe of € 600. Do you still confuse “Sie” with “du”? Improve your German (for the sake of your pocket)! There is even a list of bad terms and corresponding fines. For example, the “idiot” will be fined 15 daily penalties. In Germany, fines are based on income, so the more you earn, the more you pay.
#4. Don’t Mix Bikes and Alcohol!
It is a well-known rule that driving under the influence of alcohol is prohibited. But, Germany takes things to the next level. In Germany, cycling while drunk is also forbidden. If you go to Germany, you will be struck by the number of bike lanes they have. It is only comparable to their love of beer, but beware! If you are under the influence of alcohol and decide to ride a bike, it can have severe law implications! Not only can the German authorities confiscate your driver’s license, but they can also request a medical-psychological evaluation. If you don’t pass the exam, your license can be revoked. And good luck trying to get it back – you’ll need years (of therapy) before you pass the annual evaluations. If you drink, don’t drive, no cars, no bikes, or scooters (just in case…)
#5. Offices Must-Have Windows
According to German labor law, it is illegal to build an office that does not offer a view of the sky or a good ventilation system to protect employees’ health, ensure sufficient exposure to light, and avoid heavy work.
#6. Singing the First Verse of the National Anthem Is Not Recommended
The first verse of the national anthem, the Deutschland über alles (Germany on top of everything else), was banned after the Second World War, as it indicates the rule of the Third Reich and is associated with Nazi ideology. Although it is not illegal (there is no law on that!) It is better if it is not sung, since you can have adverse reactions from the public.
#7. Be Careful of Your Fuel on the Highway!
Driving on the highways (no speed limit) in Germany is a speed buff’s dream. But you can’t forget to fill up on gas before driving since running out of gas in one of them is illegal. You also can’t walk or stop on a highway (only if you have a car problem). This law prevents accidents, so you always have to make sure you fill up on fuel before going at full speed. 😉
#8. Nobody Gets Drunk at Oktoberfest
No, that’s not a joke or irony! During the Oktoberfest celebration in Munich, nobody gets drunk… at least, nobody is legally drunk, regardless of the amount of alcohol ingested.
#9. Babies’ Names Must Be Obvious
The German government has the right to refuse strange baby names. This means that the name must be evident from the first name. At the registration office, parents ask for their baby’s name. It is important that the first name is unique and indicates whether the baby is a boy or a girl. If not, the office may reject the name. Changing a name is an expensive process, which is why you will find many traditional names in Germany.
What did you think of the strangest laws in Germany? Do you know any other absurd law of our dear Germans or other countries? If so, do not hesitate to share it with us.