Voluntary work is an important part of municipal life. Many political offices at municipal level are filled by volunteers, as are numerous roles in municipal institutions such as the voluntary fire brigade or disaster control organisation. Associations, political parties and trade unions are also dependent on the unpaid work of private individuals. Without them, municipal life could not be maintained, even in wealthy states. The following paper discusses the significance of voluntary work at the municipal level in greater detail and shows why it is particularly important for individuals to take on responsibility in this setting.