Financial Penalties for Littering in Switzerland: Amounts Increasing in Coming Times
The Swiss Federal Council has launched a consultation on several new ordinances aimed at addressing littering, promoting recycling, and protecting wildlife. These proposals, unveiled on June 25th, are designed to create a unified national standard for littering penalties, improve recycling infrastructure, and safeguard wildlife while also supporting public infrastructure resilience.
Littering Fines
Under the new proposals, a national 'littering fine' of up to 100 francs will be imposed for discarding a single small piece of waste, such as a cigarette butt or wrapper. Those found guilty of throwing away two or more pieces of small waste will face a fine of 200 francs. Larger quantities of waste, between 35 and 110 litres, may result in a fine of up to 300 francs. For waste exceeding 110 litres, criminal proceedings could be initiated, with potential fines of up to 20,000 francs. These fines will apply to anyone over 16 caught littering in public places and will replace existing cantonal and municipal fines.
Recycling Measures
In an effort to strengthen the circular economy, several recycling measures have been proposed. From August 1st, legislation will be enforced to prioritize reuse and recycling over disposal. From 2026, recyclable metals, such as zinc, will be recovered from fly ash produced by household waste incineration plants. Additionally, a separate nationwide collection system for recyclable plastic packaging is to be established.
Bird Protection
An ordinance has been proposed to remediate electricity poles that pose an electrocution risk to birds, addressing the fatal danger overhead power lines pose to large birds. This measure also enhances the security of the electricity supply by preventing bird-caused short circuits.
These proposals are currently open for consultation until October 16, 2025. The Federal Council has also opened a consultation on two additional ordinances. One aims to establish a nationwide separate collection system for recyclable plastic packaging, while the other does not include any specific mention of other measures.
[1] Swiss Federal Council (2025). Consultation on ordinances concerning littering fines, recycling, and bird protection. Retrieved from https://www.admin.ch/gov/en/start/documentation/media-releases/msb-20250625-waste-and-litter-fines-and-bird-protection.html
Environmental science and finance are considered in the proposed ordinances, as the fines for littering aim to generate revenue for public infrastructure resilience. Furthermore, the proposed ordinance for a nationwide separate collection system for recyclable plastic packaging is a part of the finance sector, as it may encourage investment in recycling infrastructure and support the circular economy.
