Expanded prohibition of firearms and blades in public transit systems
Berlin, the vibrant capital city of Germany, is set to implement a new ordinance banning the carrying of weapons and knives on all public transportation, effective July 17, 2025. This measure aims to reduce violent crime, particularly those involving knives, which have been a significant concern in public spaces.
## Scope of the Ordinance
The ban applies to all means of public transport, including trains, buses, streetcars, and their respective stations and facilities. The ordinance covers knives of all kinds, alarm guns, irritants, and signal weapons. Folding knives and switchblades are particularly targeted due to their popularity among certain groups.
## Exceptions
Exceptions are made for professional groups such as police and firefighters, as well as for chefs or other caterers who need to transport knives for work-related purposes. Newly purchased knives that are still packaged are not prohibited during transport.
## Penalties
While specific penalties are not outlined in the available information, the ordinance grants police new powers to search individuals without suspicion, which suggests that violations could result in fines or other legal action based on existing laws.
## Enforcement
The police will have increased authority to conduct searches without specific suspicion, aiding in enforcing the ban. Despite the new powers, no special signs will be posted to highlight the ban. The ban applies to all persons in public transportation and related facilities, including train stations, platforms, and adjacent entrances.
For more detailed information about the new ban, please visit the Berlin Police website at
The new ordinance in Berlin, which includes a ban on carrying weapons, knives, alarm guns, irritants, and signal weapons, will be implemented across all public transportation means and related facilities, such as trains, buses, streetcars, and their stations. Notably, the ban targets folding knives and switchblades, but exceptions are made for professional groups like police, firefighters, chefs, and others with work-related needs for knives. The ordinance also does not prohibit newly purchased knives that are still packaged during transport.
