Berlin Court Prohibits Private Use of Road Salt Amid Winter ConditionsWed 4th Feb, 2026In a recent development affecting winter maintenance practices in Berlin, a court has ruled to prohibit the private use of road salt for de-icing sidewalks and pathways. The initial permission for private individuals to use de-icing agents, including road salt, was granted by the Berlin Senate's Department of Environment and Transport. Environmental advocates argued that the widespread use of road salt posed significant risks to urban ecosystems. Despite the ban on private use, the city's official cleaning services, operated by the Berlin City Cleaning Department (BSR), retain the authority to continue applying road salt on public streets and critical infrastructure. However, following the court's decision, private citizens must now comply with the standing prohibition on road salt use, except where explicitly permitted under municipal guidelines.

Source: The Munich Eye February 04, 2026 12:47 UTC