Tightened restrictions and hefty penalties for river bathing in the Rhine
The city of Düsseldorf has enforced a comprehensive bathing ban along the 42 kilometers of the Rhine within its city limits, effective since August 14, 2025. The ban aims to prevent further accidents caused by hazardous conditions in the Rhine, particularly the dangerous currents that pose a risk to swimmers' lives.
The decision to impose the ban followed several fatal bathing accidents in Düsseldorf this year. The city called on the federal government to impose a swimming ban on the Rhine due to these incidents, and the Ministry of the Interior of North Rhine-Westphalia confirmed that Düsseldorf can act independently in imposing such a ban.
Violators of the ban face fines of up to €1000. However, exceptions to the ban include rescue services, approved events, and brief entry and exit from water vehicles. Fishing and wading fishing are still permitted.
The police warn of the dangers of bathing in the Rhine, citing deceptive current conditions and the need for appropriate technical safety measures. The Düsseldorf Fire Department and the Düsseldorf branch of the German Life-Saving Association (DLRG) have emphasised that the Rhine is a life-threatening body of water due to strong currents.
To enforce the ban, the city is relying on the support of state police, the interior ministry, and federal authorities. The bathing ban is enforced by the police and the municipal public order and service department (OSD).
The ban is currently in effect until December 31, 2026. Similar bans have also been imposed in nearby cities like Neuss, indicating a regional response to the safety issues on the Rhine. Düsseldorf Mayor Stephan Keller emphasises that swimming in the Rhine remains life-threatening despite the ban.
The city has yet to communicate its plans for concrete controls to prevent further bathing accidents. However, preventive activities are being carried out via social media, digital advertising spaces, and warning notices for self-printing to inform the public about the dangers of swimming in the Rhine.
Concerns about public safety have led the city to focus on health-and-wellness initiatives beyond the river, promoting alternate forms of exercise and recreation. The city council is planning a series of workshops and seminars on science-based health and fitness activities to engage citizens in safer alternatives during the ban.
Despite the comprehensive ban on bathing, the city of Düsseldorf continues to encourage scientific research on the Rhine's water quality and current conditions, aiming to develop solutions towards restoring the river's safety for the future.
