In Switzerland, parking spaces are color-coded to clearly regulate where and how long parking is permitted.
The colors white, blue, and yellow represent different regulations and responsibilities.
Below you will find out what these colors mean and what consequences may arise in case of violations.
⚪ White Zone – Public Parking Spaces
White parking spaces are the most common parking spots.
They are usually located on public land and are regulated by a parking meter, app solution, or signage.
📋 The following applies in the white zone:
The parking duration and any fees are determined by the parking regulations of the respective city or municipality.
The instructions on the signs or parking meter are binding.
If the parking time is exceeded or payment is not made, the police may impose a fine.
💡 Recommendation:
Please always observe the signage – different regulations may apply even within the same municipality.
🔵 Blue Zone – Parking with Parking Disc
Blue parking spaces mark the so-called “blue zone”.
Parking here is free, but time-limited and only allowed with a correctly set parking disc.
📋 The following applies in the blue zone:
The use of a parking disc is mandatory.
The arrival time must be rounded up to the next half hour.
The maximum parking duration (usually one hour during the day, unlimited overnight) is shown on the signage.
Anyone who does not use a parking disc or exceeds the allowed parking time risks a fine by the police.
💡 Recommendation:
Electronic parking discs are permitted, provided they automatically round the arrival time to the next half hour and are approved.
🟡 Yellow Zone – Private Parking Spaces
Yellow parking spaces are located on private property.
Here, the traffic rules of the Road Traffic Act (SVG) do not apply, but rather the owner's regulations or a private parking order.
📋 The following applies in the yellow zone:
Without the express permission of the owner, parking is prohibited.
The parking space may be protected by a court order.
In case of violation, the owner may:
💰 demand a compensation for inconvenience,
⚠️ claim a contractual penalty (penalty clause), or
🚓 have the vehicle towed away.
👉 Even brief stopping or waiting in such a parking space constitutes a violation.
💡 Recommendation:
Yellow-marked parking spaces are not publicly accessible. Even if they appear empty, they may only be used with express permission.
🧭 Summary of Parking Zones
| Color | Designation | Ownership / Regulation | Applicable Rules | Consequences of Violations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⚪ White | Public Parking Spaces | City / Municipality | Parking meter, signage or app; fees may apply | Fine by the police |
| 🔵 Blue | Blue Zone | Public | Free, but with parking disc and time limit | Fine by the police |
| 🟡 Yellow | Private Parking Space | Private Property | Only with permission; court order or private parking regulations possible | Compensation for inconvenience, contractual penalty or towing |
📝 Conclusion:
The color of the parking marking provides immediate information about who manages the parking space and which regulations apply.
Knowing the differences can help avoid fines, compensation claims, and unnecessary inconveniences – whether in the city or on private property.