Church bells in Dresden-Bühlau: Despite attempts at damping at night!

Church bells in Dresden-Bühlau: Despite attempts at damping at night!

The church bells of the St. Michaelskirche in the Dresden-Bühlau district continue to ensure disputes among residents. Despite the noise reduction measures that have already been taken, the nightmishes of the bells remain a great annoyance. A spokeswoman for the city has confirmed that the noise pollution could not be reduced sufficiently even after the bells were converted. This problem has already been carried out for several years in which complaints from residents have repeatedly received.

In April 2023, the environmental office carried out renewed sound level measurements. These had become necessary after the state environmental office in August 2020 found a sound level of 59 decibels in measurements near Cunewalder Straße. For comparison: the guideline for mixed areas is a tolerable 45 decibels. However, residents report that the subsequent measures, such as the installation of brass bolts for sound reduction and reducing the impact height of the bells, have not brought any significant improvements. "The nightly timing still bothers us while sleeping," explains a resident.

latest measurements and their effects

On April 22, 2025, a new measurement took place, in which a noise level of 52 decibels was determined. However, the measurement only lasted an hour and a half and took place at another location, which limits the comparability of the results. The environmental agency stated that the noise pollution had dropped by at least three to four decibels. However, this is not sufficient because the guideline of 45 decibels will continue to be exceeded. In addition, the environmental office lacks the technical equipment for long -term measurements, which also complicates the problem.

The city plans to discuss discussions with the church council to discuss new options for reducing noise pollution. It would also be conceivable to convert the bells, which would be associated with costs between 3,000 and 4,000 euros. Here, however, the church council seems hesitant not to endanger tradition and religious freedom.

religious and legal aspects of the bell

The ringing of bells is a traditional part of church life, but is also subject to legal framework. According to the provisions on immission protection, church bells are not subject to approval, but must avoid considerable environmental impairments. In Germany, the sacred ringing is largely regarded as reasonable impairment. This means that residents usually have to learn to live with the noises, while the right to physical integrity is secured. The first legal disputes show that it is quite possible to set limits for the ringing of the church, but there is still no nationwide regulation ( Weltanschauungsrecht ).

The challenges related to the bells are not only up to date in Dresden. More and more residents in Germany feel the nightly ringing as annoying and are calling for a review of the noise limits. Talks between municipalities and parishes are therefore essential to clear out misunderstandings and find solutions that are portable for both sides. It remains to be seen whether this solution will be found in Dresden-Bühlau.

In addition, it should be borne in mind that the freedom of religion is of great relevance through the Basic Law, which requires a weighing up between traditional ringing of bells and the need for rest of the residents. A compensation is required here, especially in times when over 50 percent of the population is no longer considered religious.

For Dresden's parishes and their ringing of bells, there is a lot to do to meet the requirements of the public without endangering religious traditions. How the city will continue to proceed is of great interest, not least for the residents concerned who long for more peace.