Bavaria’s ‘water cent’ levy sparks legal threats before rollout

A controversial fee on groundwater use is dividing Bavaria. Will legal battles sink the plan before it even begins?

, and Administrator

2025 December 11 . 3:23 AM

1 min read

In the center of the image there is water. There are fountains. In the background of the image... — In the center of the image there is water. There are fountains. In the background of the image there are buildings, trees, mountains. At the bottom of the image there is grass.

Water to become slightly more expensive: Bavarian state parliament decides on water cent - Bavaria’s ‘water cent’ levy sparks legal threats before rollout

Bavaria is set to introduce a new 'water cent' levy, charging ten cents per cubic metre for groundwater use. The fee will apply to households and businesses, though some sectors will be exempt. Critics, including local authorities, have already threatened legal action before the law’s final approval.

From 1 July 2026, private water users in Bavaria will pay an extra five euros per person each year. This estimate is based on average daily consumption of nearly 140 litres. The levy, fixed at ten cents per cubic metre, will fund water protection measures across the region.

The new levy will take effect once the legal framework is finalised. Households and businesses will face higher costs, though some industries remain protected. Legal battles over the law could still delay or reshape its implementation.