Restricted hours – applying for a reduction or waiver

A general closing time has been set for restaurants and public entertainment venues. During this period, restaurants must cease trading.

Start of closing time:

• on weekdays: 3 am
• on weekdays in spa and holiday resorts: 2 am
• at the weekend, on the nights leading into Saturday and Sunday: 5 am
• for amusement arcades: midnight

Closing time generally ends at 6 am.

Note: On the night of 1 January, the closing time is suspended. On the night before Shrove Tuesday and on the night of 1 May, it begins at 5 am. This does not apply to amusement arcades.

Under certain conditions, the authorities may, in individual cases, extend the closing hours for specific establishments

• ,
• set a time limit,
• reduce them on a temporary basis, or
• lift it.

Note: Where the restricted hours are shortened or lifted, the authority may impose conditions at any time.

Under certain conditions, the competent authority may also generally extend, shorten or lift the closing hours by means of a statutory order. Such statutory orders are issued by the local authorities, the district offices, the regional councils or the Ministry of the Interior.