Drinking water supply
August 18, 2009 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Andreas Scholz
Is there a mandatory connection to the public drinking water network for weekend properties?
Dear inquirer,
The obligation to connect to the municipal water supply is determined by the municipal ordinance on the mandatory connection and use of public water supply that applies to you. This ordinance is decided by your municipality based on the local municipal code (GO) and the municipal fees act.
This ordinance specifies the conditions under which a mandatory connection and use apply.
Usually, the mandatory connection and use apply to properties where water is consumed and that are adjacent to a public road with a fully operational supply line or have direct access to such a road via a private road. If there are buildings on the property that serve as permanent residences for people, each building must be connected.
However, you can still apply for an exemption from the connection requirement and, if such an exemption is not applicable to you, from the use requirement at your municipality. An exemption may be granted in cases of hardship where it would be unreasonable for you to be subject to the connection and use requirement. The application should be supported by relevant reasons.
However, the mere fact of occasional use without additional circumstances is unlikely to be successful.
I hope this initial legal guidance has been helpful to you. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
Kind regards,
Andreas Scholz, Esq.
