Permits for Earthworks and Excavation in Berlin
Earthworks in Berlin require careful attention to various regulations before excavation can begin. From tree protection to contaminated soil, multiple permit requirements may apply depending on the project.
When Are Permits Required?
Separate permits or notifications are needed for excavation near protected trees (Baumschutzverordnung), work in water protection zones, groundwater lowering operations, work on sites suspected of contamination, and areas with archaeological ground monuments. Earthworks that are part of a building permit application are covered by that permit.
Tree Protection
Berlin's Tree Protection Ordinance protects all trees with a trunk circumference of 80 cm or more. Earthworks within the crown drip line plus 1.5 meters require special authorization, and hand digging may be mandated instead of machine excavation to protect roots.
Groundwater
Berlin has areas with high groundwater tables. Any excavation that reaches groundwater requires a water law permit from the Senate Department for the Environment, supported by a hydrogeological survey. Pumped groundwater requires a separate discharge permit.
Contaminated Soil
Berlin has numerous sites with soil contamination from former industrial use. Before excavation on suspected sites, soil analysis must be conducted and disposal must follow the LAGA M 20 classification system. Clean soil costs 5-15 euros per ton to dispose of, while heavily contaminated soil can cost 80-200 euros per ton.