"Action sharp!"

New rules against noise on Graz sports grounds

One of the problem areas: The sports field on the densely populated Hafnerriegel

(Bild: Philipp Braunegger)

Noise late into the night annoys the residents of many district sports grounds in Graz: Stricter rules now apply - and those who don't comply could even face legal action.

Booming music, drinking binges, noise pollution until late at night. The residents of Graz's district sports grounds don't always have it easy. A basketball hoop under a bedroom window can become an acoustic burden. But these problems, often caused by youth groups, are now to be put to an end!

New rules as "Action sharp!"
On the one hand, there are fixed times of use (on weekdays from around 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.), but on the other hand there are also clear prohibitions: Music with amplification systems, alcohol, smoking and dogs are banned on district sports grounds with immediate effect by municipal council resolution and are intended to prevent recurring conflicts. The previous rules from July 2023 were only recommendations, now they are official - "Action Sharp"!

(Bild: Foto Fischer/Graz )

"Residents want to get a good night's sleep, especially on Sundays and public holidays," says Sports and Youth Councillor Kurt Hohensinner (ÖVP). The public order patrol ensures that the rules are observed, "Violations can result in a civil lawsuit." According to Hohensinner, this gives the city "a means of dealing with people who use the sports areas permanently for parties and the like and cause displeasure among residents and athletes."

Hohensinner: "A good compromise"
The city councillor adds: "Sport and exercise must have a central place in city life. Everyone has to take a step back and move towards each other. The current set of rules is a good compromise to make sport possible and to respect the quiet periods of residents."

Philipp Braunegger