German towns ban pool filling, raise swimming fees amid water shortage

The municipal water provider in Obergünzburg announced an immediate ban on filling private pools and swimming ponds, saying the volume of water required would strain the already stressed supply during a prolonged drought. Residents are urged to limit all non‑essential water use, water gardens during early morning or evening, and fix leaks quickly.

In the neighbouring Bavarian town of Kümmersbruck, officials approved higher admission prices for the municipal indoor swimming pool to close a budget deficit. The increase applies to adult and youth visitors, while school groups remain exempt. The fee hike is intended to offset the facility’s operating shortfall without further burdening taxpayers.