No, ticket scalping in Germany is generally prohibited under the Ticketverkaufsgesetz (TVerG) and Gesetz gegen unlauteren Wettbewerb (UWG), with exceptions for authorized resale platforms like Ticketmaster Resale or Eventim. The 2021 amendment to the TVerG tightened controls, and the 2026 draft amendments propose stricter penalties for bulk purchases and automated bots. Local authorities, including the Bundesnetzagentur, enforce compliance, particularly for high-demand events like Bundesliga matches or concerts.
Key Regulations for Scalping Tickets in Germany
- Primary Ticket Market Restrictions: The TVerG mandates that tickets may only be resold at face value unless the original seller explicitly permits higher prices via licensed platforms. Unauthorized resale (e.g., street vendors) is criminalized under § 202c StGB (fraud).
- Platform Licensing: Resale platforms must obtain approval from the Bundesnetzagentur and adhere to transparency rules, including mandatory seller verification and price caps for certain event categories (e.g., sports, cultural events).
- Anti-Bot Provisions: The UWG and TVerG prohibit the use of automated tools (bots) to circumvent purchase limits, with fines up to €50,000 for violations. The 2026 amendments aim to expand this to include proxy servers and AI-driven scalping.