Bundeswasserstraßengesetz

The Bundeswasserstraßengesetz, often abbreviated as BWaStrG, is a German federal law that governs the public waterways in Germany. It defines what constitutes a federal waterway, establishes the responsibilities of the federal government in their maintenance and administration, and sets out regulations for their use. The law primarily aims to ensure the navigability, safety, and environmental protection of these waterways.

Key aspects covered by the Bundeswasserstraßengesetz include the designation of waterways as federal property, the powers of the Waterways and Shipping Administration (Wasserstraßen- und Schifffahrtsverwaltung des Bundes) in managing them, and rules concerning shipping traffic, such as speed limits and right-of-way. It also addresses aspects of infrastructure development, such as the construction and maintenance of locks, dams, and bridges. Furthermore, the law regulates activities that could impact federal waterways, including construction projects near their banks and the discharge of substances into them, emphasizing ecological considerations. The BWaStrG serves as the foundational legal framework for Germany's extensive network of rivers, canals, and coastal waters.