The Vienna Event Law 2020 (Wr. VG) has been amended! We’ve summarised which changes are already in effect and which will come into force on 01.07.2026.
- The consultation process ran from the end of August to the end of September 2024.
- The law was passed in the Vienna State Parliament on 24.04.2025.
- It was published approximately 2–3 weeks after its passage in the State Parliament.
The changes were officially announced in the Vienna State Gazette 33/2025 on 30.06.2025. This article provides an overview of the individual points.
Extension of closing hours
The new Event Law allows outdoor events during the summer months on weekends and public holidays to extend the closing hour from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. Open-air concerts may therefore continue at the same volume until 11 p.m., provided prior approval has been granted. Previously, venues had to reduce volume from 10 p.m. onwards.
This change comes into effect one day after the law is published.
Protection of existing venues
The draft law explicitly grants a form of “grandfathering” for venues older than 30 years with a capacity of more than 1,500 visitors. These venues may maintain their existing noise levels, even if residential buildings are constructed nearby after the fact.
This change comes into effect one day after the law is published.
Awareness concept, Awareness representatives, and rescue chain
Venues with a capacity of 300 or more visitors must provide an awareness concept if certain conditions are met, such as:
- Dance floors or standing areas in front of the stage
- Alcohol service
- Event ending after 9 p.m.
The concept must include a clearly defined rescue chain and measures for how it is triggered. Depending on the number of visitors, awareness officers must also be appointed.
For events with 5,000 visitors or more, awareness measures must be integrated into the safety concept. Venues must also be made safer – for example, through adequate lighting at toilets in outdoor areas or in poorly visible areas (e.g., shrub clusters).
Requirements in case of inspection:
- Awareness representatives must be named in the Awareness concept.
- The Awareness concept must be in writing.
- During an inspection, it is sufficient to present the concept.
- Additional proof (e.g., contracts) is currently not required.
This change comes into effect approximately one year after publication (01.07.2026).
Environmental protection
In addition to protecting visitors, the draft law places another important focus on environmental protection. Organisers of events with more than 2,000 visitors must create an environmental and waste concept. This concept should include measures such as:
- Incentives for using public transport or bicycles to reach the venue
- Reducing energy consumption
- Responsible water usage
- Use of ecological materials
This change comes into effect approximately one year after publication (01.07.2026).
In short: All changes requiring action from venue operators, organisers, and awareness officers are subject to an approximately one-year transition period. This period is intended to ensure the new requirements are implemented properly and on time. Inspections will only take place after the transition period ends.
If you have further questions, you can contact us via our consultation form.
