In Freising, Germany, the city council is facing increasing pressure to reconsider a steep rise in fees for outdoor seating areas in the city center. This decision comes in response to significant protests from local restaurateurs and retailers, who have expressed concerns over the financial burden imposed by these increased charges. The Finance Committee of the city council has responded by agreeing to revisit the controversial fee structure, as reported by the local marketing association, Aktive City. The fee hike, which came into effect shortly after the New Year, saw costs for outdoor seating jump from ten euros per square meter per year to a staggering six euros per square meter per month. As a result, businesses that wish to serve customers outdoors from April to October will face costs more than four times higher than previously. Additionally, the cost of planters used for outdoor decoration has also increased, from 2.50 euros to five euros, adding further strain to local businesses. This fee increase was formally approved on November 27, but communication surrounding the decision has been criticized. Many hostels and shops received late or no notification of the new fees, leading to frustration within the business community. Local leaders are advocating for reconsideration of the fee structure, emphasizing that such astronomical price hikes are unsustainable for the town’s cafes and retailers, which play a vital role in the local economy.