Lucerne: Pioneer with 90-day rule
Since January 2024, a maximum of 90 rental days per year have been permitted in residential zones. The city wants to counteract the misappropriation of living space. The regulation is seen as a model for other cities and regions in Switzerland.
Zurich: Interventions at municipal and cantonal level
A revised building and zoning code has restricted commercial short-term rentals in residential zones since 2024. In addition, the SP is planning a municipal popular initiative for a 90-day upper limit. Cantonal regulations are also under discussion
Basel-Stadt: visitor’s tax and possible upper limit
A new law is to centralise the collection of the tourist tax. At the same time, a 90-day limit is being debated, accompanied by proposals for stricter reporting obligations.
Bern: Old town under protection through “Lex Airbnb”
Since 2022, a special regulation has been in force in Bern’s old town that restricts commercial holiday flats on upper floors. No further cantonal regulations are currently planned.
Geneva: Pioneer with established 90-day limit
In Geneva municipalities with a tight housing market, a 90-day limit has been in place for several years. Providers must register their lettings and adhere to local guidelines.
Valais: local solutions instead of cantonal law
Zermatt, Verbier & Co. have introduced their own restrictions via zoning plans or tax law. A cantonal regulation is still lacking, but is being called for.
Interlaken and Bödeli region: strict regulations
Registration requirements and a minimum stay of five nights in residential zones have been in force since 2019. A new regional popular initiative wants to introduce an additional 90-day limit.
Thun: regulations in progress
In October 2024, the municipal council approved a motion calling for municipal regulations. The actual drafting is currently underway.
Graubünden: Analysis before legislation
A study on the effects of short-term rentals was commissioned in 2023. A decision on specific regulations will only be made once this has been analysed.
Conclusion: 90-day rule as the Swiss standard?
The 90-day limit is increasingly seen throughout Switzerland as a suitable instrument for harmonising tourist use and the protection of residential space. While some cantons have already passed legislation, others are still in the analysis or implementation phase. One thing is clear: political interest in fair, transparent platform rentals is growing
