Switzerland to impose nationwide system of fines for littering

Those who litter in Switzerland will soon face fines of up to 300 francs, under plans unveiled by the government. The reforms are part of a nationwide effort to cut down on waste and improve rates of recycling.

What you need to know about the new littering fines in Switzerland

Under the current system, it is up to Swiss cantons and local councils to decide how to punish littering. Now, the Federal Council hopes to make a uniform system of fines that police can use across the country.

The new fines will be issued to those aged 16 years or older who are caught littering. The lowest fine of 100 francs will be issued if a person throws away or abandons a single piece of litter. This can be as small as a sandwich wrapper or cigarette butt.

Fines of 200 francs will be issued if a person leaves behind two or more items of litter, while 300 franc penalties will be introduced for those who leave waste totalling between 35 and 110 litres in size. In cases where over 110 litres of rubbish is left by the wayside, prosecution and fines of up to 20.000 francs will be imposed.

Swiss government moves to reduce waste and boost recycling

The plans submitted by the Federal Council are part of a broader effort to reduce waste, support Swiss wildlife, and improve recycling rates. Other parts of the package include, among others, plans for a nationwide collection service for “recoverable” plastic packaging and a campaign to make Swiss railways and their electric pylons safe for birds. The reforms will now be sent out for consultation, which will conclude in October 2025.

Though around half of the waste produced in Switzerland is recycled, making the country one of the best recycling nations in Europe, consumption remains a huge problem. Data showcased by Swissinfo in 2024 notes that, on average, people in Switzerland produce 671 kilograms of waste each year, one of the highest levels in the world. 

A 2023 study from Oceancare added that every resident of the alpine nation produces a global ranking topping 127 kilos of plastic waste each year. In addition, while 97% of glass, 91% of aluminium and 83% of PET bottles are recycled, up to 90% of Swiss plastic waste is still incinerated.