Earthquake-specific building regulations for private buildings
Earthquake damage can be avoided through earthquake-proof construction of new buildings and retrospective earthquake-proofing of existing buildings. It appears that seismic safety is given little consideration and is addressed inconsistently in cantonal legislation and building permit procedures. To improve the systematic implementation of earthquake-resistant construction rules in practice, it is important that the cantons have a clear legal basis and consider this aspect in a targeted manner within the framework of the building permit procedure.
poor
positive
Despite positive developments until 2019, few cantons (BS, VS, NW, JU, AG, FR, LU, BE) link private building permits to earthquake-specific conditions. The extent of regulations and monitoring rigor differs among cantons. With only a third having integrated earthquake-specific building regulations, the current state is considered "poor". In April 2023, the BPUK, in collaboration with the FOEN, issued recommendations to aid cantonal and municipal authorities in systematically implementing earthquake-resistant construction.
- Related indicators
- Local information about seismic hazard
This indictor is not comparable at international level. There is no database or comparison of practices at international level in relation to earthquake-specific building regulations and the granting of planning permission.
The data were obtained through a survey of the cantonal building authorities since 2007. The surveying of data prior to 2007 and the subsequent updates were carried out on the basis of direct contact between the FOEN and the cantons.
| Targeted trend | Initial value | Final value | Variation in % | Observed trend | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Growth | Average 2014-2016 | Average 2022-2024 | 14.29% | Growth | positive |
Further information
