Installing outdoor advertising
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If you wish to install advertising in public spaces or on buildings, you must comply with the building regulations and municipal ordinances of the Canton of Zurich. If you wish to install advertising outside your own property, you also need the consent of the property owner concerned. On this page, you will find all the important information regarding the installation of outdoor advertising.
Key Points at a Glance
- Outdoor advertising includes illuminated signs, facade lettering, billboards, and temporary advertising structures.
- Depending on the location, you may need a building permit.
- In any case, the owner of the property in question must give their consent.
- Municipal approval may be required.
- Design regulations must be followed.
Requirements for installing outdoor advertising
Depending on the location of your planned outdoor advertising, the following documents and permits may be required:
- Building permit: A building permit is required for most outdoor advertising structures. You must apply for this with the canton or the relevant municipality.
- Municipal approval: Some municipalities have additional requirements or guidelines for advertising structures in public spaces.
- Design regulations: Many municipalities regulate the shape, size, and design of advertising structures. Before planning, check with your municipality regarding local requirements. Especially near traffic routes, traffic safety imposes specific requirements on the design of advertising structures. It may be that, based on § 240 PBG, outdoor advertising is completely prohibited at certain locations.
- Agreement or Permit: If you wish to install outdoor advertising on third-party property, it is advisable to obtain explicit permission or an agreement. If the property is publicly owned, a concession or permit may be required.
How to proceed
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Determine what type of outdoor advertising you wish to install (e.g. illuminated signs, facade lettering). This will determine which regulations apply.
Check with your municipality:
- What permits are required?
- What design regulations apply at the planned location?
- Are there any restrictions regarding size or material?
If you wish to install outdoor advertising on public property, contact the relevant local authority, which is usually either the municipality or the cantonal public works office.
Submit the required documents to the relevant municipality. This typically includes:
- Building permit application form
- Plans and drawings of the proposed outdoor advertising
- Information on materials and lighting (if applicable)
- Evidence of compliance with design regulations
Note:
The information on this page is for guidance only and is not exhaustive. Details should be clarified with experts or the relevant authorities as early as possible.
Further information
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Contact
Tiefbauamt – Strasseninspektorat