Zurich’s city council will introduce new residents’ parking permits in January 2027, raising the cost of parking in blue zones, reported SRF. Concessions for tradespeople remain blocked by a legal dispute.
Zurich residents will face higher costs. Under the “Biel model”, they must first use parking spaces attached to their buildings, which are considerably more expensive. They will qualify for an annual blue-zone permit only when those spaces are occupied.
Higher charges for heavier cars
Residents’ permits previously cost CHF 300 francs a year. Under the new system, even the cheapest are expected to cost more than CHF 50. Charges will depend on a vehicle’s engine type and weight. For heavy petrol-powered SUVs, they could approach CHF 1,000.
The scheme follows the city parliament’s proposal, which won 52.8% of votes cast in a referendum. The city council’s proposal specifies a flat annual fee of CHF 540.
Existing permits will remain valid until 30 April 2027 at the latest. Applications for new permits must be submitted by 15 January.
Parties threaten legal action
The centre-right parties criticised the decision on Thursday, calling it scandalous to introduce the rules without the promised concessions for businesses.
“The city council is betraying the voters,” said the FDP, the liberal party, which is considering legal action. It argued that the council should honour the compromise reached with businesses and await the outcome of the court proceedings.
The Swiss People’s Party (SVP) called the decision absolutely unacceptable. Stephan Iten, its parliamentary group leader, accused the council of misleading the electorate and distorting voters’ wishes.
Some changes are already in force
The taxi-rank permit introduced under the new rules has been available since 1 January 2026. It costs CHF 480 a year and is restricted to holders of both a cantonal taxi licence and a cantonal taxi-vehicle permit.
Since spring 2026, day permits for blue-zone parking, tradespeople and access to restricted zones have also been available digitally.
More on this:
SRF article (in German)
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