Vienna to Raise Fees as Part of Budget Consolidation

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The City of Vienna is preparing a broad package of fee increases as part of its ongoing efforts to stabilize municipal finances. A collective amendment, soon to be voted on in the state parliament, will raise costs across several areas—including administrative charges, dog taxes, and public-space usage fees.

Administrative Fees

City officials note that many fees have remained unchanged for decades despite rising expenses. Under the new amendment, the maximum cap for administrative fees will jump from €1,500 to €4,000. While exact rates will be set later by decree, around 300 different charges—ranging from official services to commission fees—are expected to be affected.

Usage Fees

Changes are also coming to the Usage Fees Act. Businesses and individuals who place goods outside shops, store materials on sidewalks, or erect structures will face higher costs. Even ticket sellers dressed in Mozart-era costumes at tourist hotspots will see their monthly fee nearly double—from about €170 to almost €350.

Dog Tax

The dog tax, unchanged since 1989, will be significantly revised. Starting in 2026, the annual fee for a first dog will rise from €72.67 to €120, while each additional dog will cost €160 instead of €109. By 2027, a uniform rate of €120 per dog will apply. Exemptions will remain for low-income owners and shelter dogs, though higher fees will apply to certain listed breeds. Officials stress that the adjustment is necessary to maintain infrastructure such as over 200 dog zones, exercise areas with water connections, and nearly 4,000 bag dispensers.

Other Increases

Sewer and water connection fees will rise.
The Vienna sports promotion levy will increase by 25%, reaching 12.5% of ticket prices.
Taxes on betting terminals will climb from €350 to €525—a 50% hike.

Future Adjustments

For the first time, many levies will be tied to the consumer price index, allowing regular revaluations. City hall emphasizes that increases will be based on specific cost developments rather than across-the-board hikes, and social exemptions will remain in place.

The amendment is expected to pass this year, with most changes taking effect in March or April 2026. The city anticipates at least €65.5 million in additional annual revenue, not including tariffs still awaiting regulation.