What Changes in Germany in September 2026?

/ Germany Updates / By

Several changes take effect in Germany in September 2026. They affect railway passengers, taxpayers, users of smart devices and consumers.

Germany will also test its nationwide warning system, while Oktoberfest returns to Munich. Here are the most important dates and changes to know.

Alcohol ban at more German railway stations

From 1 September, drinking alcohol will be prohibited at the following stations:

  • Berlin Hauptbahnhof
  • Berlin Gesundbrunnen
  • Kiel Hauptbahnhof
  • Braunschweig Hauptbahnhof

Deutsche Bahn plans to introduce the ban gradually at all of its approximately 5,400 stations by 15 October 2026.

The rule prohibits drinking alcohol in station areas, including platforms. However, passengers may still carry sealed alcoholic drinks. Restaurants and bars inside railway stations are also excluded from the ban.

The new rule does not automatically ban alcohol on Deutsche Bahn trains.

People who ignore the station rule may be asked to leave. Repeated violations could result in a station ban.

This is a Deutsche Bahn house rule rather than a new criminal law.

Germany tests its warning systems on 10 September

Germany’s annual nationwide warning day, called Bundesweiter Warntag, takes place on 10 September 2026.

At around 11:00, a test warning will be sent through several channels:

  • Cell Broadcast on compatible mobile phones
  • Warning apps such as NINA
  • Radio and television
  • Digital information boards
  • Local sirens and loudspeakers, where available

An all-clear message is expected at around 11:45.

This is only a test. You do not need to contact the police or emergency services when you receive the warning.

Cell Broadcast normally works without a separate app. However, your phone must be switched on, compatible with the system and connected to a mobile network.

Users get better access to data from new smart devices

From 12 September 2026, new connected products placed on the EU market must be designed so that users can access the data generated by the product more easily and securely.

This may apply to products such as:

  • Smart televisions
  • Fitness trackers
  • E-bikes
  • Connected cars
  • Smart heating systems
  • Household appliances

Where it is relevant and technically possible, users should be able to access the data directly. They may also ask for the data to be shared with another service provider.

This could make it easier to:

  • Arrange independent repairs
  • Check the condition of a device
  • Change maintenance providers
  • Use another compatible service
  • Understand energy consumption

The requirement applies to connected products placed on the market after 12 September 2026. It does not automatically add new functions to every older device you already own.

When purchasing a smart device, check what data it generates, how you can access it and whether it can be shared with another provider.

Clearer information about product guarantees

From 27 September 2026, consumers should receive clearer information about their legal rights when purchasing products in stores or online.

A harmonised EU notice will explain the statutory legal guarantee, known in Germany as Gewährleistung. Under EU consumer rules, this generally protects consumers for at least two years when goods purchased from a professional seller are defective or do not conform to the contract.

A separate label may also be displayed when a manufacturer provides a qualifying commercial durability guarantee.

The two terms should not be confused:

  • Gewährleistung is your statutory right against the seller.
  • Garantie is an additional voluntary promise from a seller or manufacturer.

A commercial guarantee does not replace your statutory rights.

Keep your receipt, order confirmation and written guarantee conditions after making an important purchase.

Stricter rules against greenwashing

Environmental advertising rules also become stricter from 27 September 2026.

Businesses will face new restrictions when using general environmental claims such as:

  • Environmentally friendly
  • Green
  • Climate neutral
  • Sustainable

These claims must be supported by clear and verifiable evidence. Sustainability labels must generally be based on an established certification system or created by a public authority.

A company should also not advertise an entire product as environmentally friendly when the claim applies only to one small part of it.

For example, recyclable packaging does not automatically make the product inside environmentally friendly.

The new rules are intended to help consumers distinguish between reliable environmental information and vague marketing claims.

When comparing products, look for specific information instead of relying only on words such as “green” or “sustainable”.

More people can use a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein

From 1 September 2026, Germany will expand the types of cases that income-tax assistance associations, known as Lohnsteuerhilfevereine, may handle.

Until now, these associations could generally assist members with certain additional income only when it stayed below:

  • €18,000 for an individual
  • €36,000 for jointly assessed couples

These limits will be removed for permitted additional income, including income from renting out property.

This means that more employees and pensioners with rental income, investment income or certain other additional income may qualify for help from a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein.

However, the reform does not allow these associations to handle every tax case. Self-employed people, freelancers and business owners may still need a qualified tax adviser.

If you were previously rejected because your rental or other permitted additional income exceeded the old limit, you can ask a Lohnsteuerhilfeverein to check your eligibility again from September.

Oktoberfest begins on 19 September

Oktoberfest 2026 begins on 19 September and continues until 4 October at the Theresienwiese in Munich.

On the opening day:

  • Festival tents open from 9:00
  • The official beer-barrel tapping takes place at 12:00
  • Beer service begins after the official opening
  • Rides operate from 12:00 until midnight

Entry to the main Oktoberfest grounds is generally free. Visitors pay separately for food, drinks and rides.

The price of one litre of festival beer, called a Maß, ranges from €14.80 to €15.90 in 2026, depending on the tent.

Accommodation and long-distance transport can become expensive during Oktoberfest. Book early and use public transport to reach the festival grounds.

Official sources

  • Last updated: 25 August 2026