Despite late kick-off times during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, open air public viewing on big screens will be possible. Today the German Cabinet adopted an ordinance submitted by the Federal Environment Ministry listing exemptions from applicable noise management rules.
"Watching games together in the open air is simply an inherent element of the World Cup. Therefore I consider an exemption from standard noise protection regulations to be justified. This is why we have tabled an ordinance which allows public viewing and guarantees adequate minimum protection for local residents. Municipalities will have to decide on a case by case basis", Federal Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks explained.
Due to late kick-off times at various locations, an exemption is required as applicable noise protection standards cannot be met. The ordinance will expand the competent municipal authorities' scope of action regarding the approval of public viewing. In each individual case authorities must find a balance between the overriding public interest in the games and noise protection during sleeping hours. The following factors must be taken into account: Overall public interest and importance of the game in the overall tournament, distance from residential areas and noise-sensitive facilities, sensitivity of the environment, noise reduction measures and scope, number and sequence of approved exemptions.
The Federal Government has put forward this ordinance in response to a request made by the German Association of Cities. The Länder still have to adopt the ordinance in the German Federal Council. Similar ordinances were issued for the 2006 and 2010 World Cup and the 2008 European Football Championship.