SPO to Increase Tourist Tax: What to Expect in 2025
St. Peter-Ording is considering raising the tourist tax, also known as Kurabgabe, starting in 2025. After almost 20 years without an increase, the approximately one million visitors and day-trippers to this popular beach destination will likely have to pay more for their stay. The proposed changes have sparked discussions among community representatives and committee members on the new rates and season structure.
Proposed Changes in Tourist Tax Rates
Initially, the Tourism Center suggested raising the tourist tax to 2.50 euros during the off-peak season and 3.50 euros during the peak season, with arrival and departure days counted as full days. However, this proposal faced opposition, particularly regarding the treatment of guests staying for only a short duration. The Tourism Committee debated these points extensively before reaching a consensus.
New Proposal by the Tourism Committee
Ultimately, the majority of committee members agreed to keep the tourist tax per night as it is currently structured but to increase the overall fee. Under the new proposal, starting in 2025, visitors will pay 4 euros per night during the peak season and 3 euros during the off-peak season. Children and teenagers up to 18 years old (accompanied by adults) will be exempt from the tax. Additionally, individuals with disabilities, students, apprentices, and scholars will qualify for reduced rates of at least 50%.
While this adjustment is pending final approval, the Finance Committee is scheduled to meet on September 16, followed by the Community Council’s decision in its next session on October 21.
Seasonal Changes and Comparison with Büsum
The current seasonal breakdown in St. Peter-Ording includes the winter season from February 1 to February 28 (1 euro), the off-peak season from March 1 to May 14 and October 1 to October 31 (2 euros), and the summer season from May 15 to September 30 (3 euros). Arrival and departure days are each counted as half a day.
The proposed new seasonal structure would divide the year into the off-peak season from January 8 to March 31 and November 1 to December 24 (3 euros) and the peak season from April 1 to October 31 and December 25 to January 7 (4 euros), with arrival and departure days still considered half days.
If the new proposal is approved, St. Peter-Ording would align its tourist tax rates with Büsum, another popular coastal destination in Germany. Büsum currently charges 4 euros during the peak season and 2.80 euros during the off-peak season.
Anticipated Increase in Tourism Levy
In addition to the tourist tax, local businesses in St. Peter-Ording are required to pay a tourism levy that supports the Tourism Center’s expenses for health and recreational facilities, as well as promotional activities. The projected increased coverage for the tourism levy, currently at 571,000 euros, is expected to triple, according to Tourism Director Katharina Schirmbeck.
Final Thoughts
The potential rise in tourist taxes and tourism levies in St. Peter-Ording reflects the ongoing efforts to support the region’s tourism infrastructure and services. As discussions continue and decisions are made in the coming months, visitors and stakeholders alike will need to be prepared for these changes in the years ahead.
