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Lübeck’s 0 km/h Christmas Market Camera Faces Data-Privacy Review

The state watchdog opened a review of the Old Town access-control camera following reports it photographs any movement during market hours.

Overview

  • Schleswig-Holstein data protection commissioner Marit Hansen requested details from the city on how personal data are processed at the Burgtor enforcement site.
  • The Ordnungsamt configured the device to trigger at 0 km/h from 10:30 to 22:00 to police a temporary road closure linked to the Christmas market.
  • The camera captures cars, cyclists and pedestrians, with the city saying non-motorist images are deleted and only motorists receive a €50 fine for violations.
  • ADAC and local political figures criticized the measure’s security value, calling for physical barriers and clear traffic routing instead of post‑facto photos.
  • City officials cited staffing limits for turning to automated control, and the unit has been periodically taken offline to recharge after about five days of continuous use.