Federal Council brings amended noise protection ordinance into force
The Federal Council has decided to bring parts of the amendment to the Environmental Protection Act and the amendment to the Noise Abatement Ordinance into force on April 1, 2026. The aim of the new regulations is to better coordinate settlement development with noise protection and at the same time create more legal certainty for construction projects.
The amendments are intended in particular to promote inward densification. This is the Federal Council's response to the increasing demand for living space in already built-up areas. At the same time, the noise law criteria for building permits are being clarified so that construction projects can also be assessed more clearly in areas with noise pollution.
According to the new provisions, municipalities can approve residential buildings in noise-polluted areas if the statutory noise limits are complied with or suitable noise protection measures are provided. If compliance with the limit values is only possible with disproportionate effort, exceptions can still be granted under certain conditions.
One example of this is the installation of controlled residential ventilation, which can improve the quality of living despite increased noise pollution. In addition, the new regulations also allow exceptions in the definition or adaptation of building zones under certain conditions. However, aspects such as open space design and quality of living must be taken into account.
The amendments to the Environmental Protection Act in the area of noise protection and the revised Noise Protection Ordinance will officially enter into force on April 1, 2026. In future, they should ensure a better balance between residential development and noise protection.
Source: bafu.admin.ch
