Setting the course for the future in partial revision 2024

December 2024

The partial revision 2024 of the cantonal structure plan of the Canton of Zurich is open to the public from December 6, 2024 to March 14, 2025. Citizens and planning authorities are invited to comment on the revision. The focus is on new landfill sites, flood protection and the reduction of light emissions.

The cantonal structure plan is regularly reviewed and adapted to reflect current developments. The 2024 partial revision contains important adjustments in the “Supply and disposal”, “Landscape” and “Settlement” chapters. For example, the site for the deep geological repository will be entered for information purposes, while measures to limit light emissions and flood protection will be added.

New landfill sites for long-term waste disposal security
A central point of the revision is the entry of 20 new landfill sites and the expansion of three existing landfills. At the same time, two existing sites will be deleted. The aim is to ensure disposal security for the next 40 years. As not every registered site will be realized, precautionary planning is being carried out with more options than are currently required.

In order to reduce transport traffic, at least one type B landfill is to be operated in each planning region. For types C/D/E, an additional two to five landfills are planned throughout the canton. Special requirements will ensure that sites in close proximity are controlled in a targeted manner and put into operation at a coordinated time.

Public circulation and consultation
The partial revision of the structure plan is open to the public from December 6, 2024 to March 14, 2025. Interested citizens can submit written comments. The planning regions and municipalities will be consulted at the same time. An explanatory report will summarize the feedback before the Government Council submits the revised draft to the Cantonal Council for consultation.

Simultaneous amendments to legislation
Parallel to the partial revision of the structure plan, the consultation process for a revision of the Planning and Building Act with a focus on “Spatial development and night” is taking place. The avoidance of light emissions and the regulation of solar installations in protected sites are also part of these consultations. The coordinated implementation of these bills ensures that the measures are targeted and future-oriented.

With the partial revision of the 2024 cantonal structure plan, the canton is setting important priorities for sustainable spatial and environmental development. The participation of citizens and municipalities ensures that the adjustments are broadly supported and implemented transparently.

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