Strict controls: Alcohol ban on Franz-Jonas-Platz comes into force!

Strict controls: Alcohol ban on Franz-Jonas-Platz comes into force!

A clear step towards more safety: There has been a strict ban on alcohol at Franz-Jonas-Platz in Floridsdorf since February 7, 2025. The city of Vienna is sending a signal that alcohol-related problems in this heavily frequented place are being decisively addressed. As the crown reported, the ban was already rigorously enforced on the first day. Long after the red signs were installed, the police and the city's “Vienna Operations Team” carried out immediate checks and found that the measure appeared to be bearing fruit: no empty beer cans were seen, and only one snack stand owner had not complied with the regulations by selling a beer and hidden liquor bottles.

Deployment and enforcement

The ban extends not only to Franz-Jonas-Platz, but also to adjacent areas such as parts of Schloßhofer Straße and other surrounding zones. Police have the right to confiscate and destroy alcoholic beverages if people are found with beer, wine or spirits, according to the report wien.gv.at. Mayor Michael Ludwig emphasized the importance of Vienna's house rules, while district leader Georg Papai emphasized the safety of residents. The measures are intended not only to improve citizens' sense of security, but also to make the square and its surroundings more attractive.

Despite the positive initial results, there are worried voices who fear that the problems could simply be ignored. Police Chief Walter Hillerer commented that smaller groups could stabilize the situation and thus reduce the risk of potential escalations. The alcohol ban in Floridsdorf joins existing prohibition zones such as those at Praterstern, where similar measures have been successfully used since 2018. However, the Viennese authorities remain optimistic and promise to continue regular checks, especially in the coming warmer months.