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Vienna will not only see higher public transport fares and parking costs next year — several other municipal fees will also increase beginning January 2026. MeinBezirk provides an overview of what residents can expect.
Budget Background
A few weeks ago, the City of Vienna presented an initial outline of its 2026 budget. The projected deficit stands at 2.65 billion euros, with planned expenditures of 22.16 billion euros. The full draft budget was published on November 14.
Some fee increases had already been announced earlier. As of January 1, the annual pass for Wiener Linien will rise by 27.85 percent, and residential parking permits (“Parkpickerl”) will become 30 percent more expensive.
This week, the city released further details on additional fee adjustments, including administrative charges, the dog tax, and tariffs for selling tickets in public spaces.
Overview of the New Fees
Usage Fees
People who place goods in front of their shops, store construction materials on sidewalks, or install temporary structures will face higher charges. The same applies to vendors dressed in Mozart-era costumes who sell concert tickets at tourist hotspots like Stephansplatz. Their monthly fee will jump from 170 euros to 350 euros.
Dog Tax
Currently, the dog tax is 72.67 euros for the first dog and 109 euros for each additional one. Starting in 2026, the fee will be standardized at 120 euros per year for the first dog and will remain 109 euros for others. From 2027 onward, all dogs will be subject to a uniform rate of 120 euros annually. Exemptions are planned for low-income residents.
Sports Promotion Contribution
The tax rate for Vienna’s sports promotion levy will increase by 25 percent, rising to 12.5 percent. The fee is calculated based on ticket prices. Charges for sports betting terminals will also rise—from 350 to 525 euros, a 50 percent increase.
Grilling on the Danube Island
Several barbecue areas on the Donauinsel require a reservation fee. Starting in 2026, the cost will rise sharply from 10 euros to 45 euros, following a recommendation from the City Audit Office.
Public Library Annual Pass
Borrowing books from Vienna’s public libraries will also become more expensive. The standard annual pass for adults will increase from 36 to 45 euros. Discounted passes will rise by nearly 4 euros, costing 15 euros from January onward.
Regular Index Adjustments Planned
City Councillor for Economic Affairs Barbara Novak (SPÖ) announced in an APA interview that automatic index adjustments (“Valorisierungen”) will soon be introduced. This means municipal fees will be regularly aligned with the Consumer Price Index starting in spring 2026. The necessary legal amendment is expected to be passed by the state parliament in December.
- Hector Pascua with reports from meinbezirk.at/picture: pixabay.com
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