Winterthur adapts building and zoning regulations
The city of Winterthur is introducing the harmonised building terms of the "Intercantonal Agreement on the Harmonisation of Building Terms" (IVHB) with a partial revision of the building and zoning regulations (BZO). In doing so, it is implementing cantonal requirements and creating a more standardised basis for planning and construction.
The aim of the IVHB is to standardise key construction terms and measurement methods throughout Switzerland. Although the canton of Zurich has not joined the concordat, it is implementing the harmonisation – a significant step towards simplifying planning and building law. Winterthur is now integrating these changes into the local building and zoning regulations.
Significant changes to the building and zoning regulations
The partial revision of the BZO includes numerous amendments that are mandatory in connection with the IVHB building concepts. For example, 24 paragraphs of the BZO were adapted on a one-to-one basis. The dimensions were reviewed and adjusted in 15 paragraphs. For example, the building height is now defined on the basis of the façade height, which replaces the previous practice of full storeys.
Introduction of the green area ratio
This new term replaces the open space ratio and defines the relationship between green and plot areas. The aim is to promote unsealed, planted areas and preserve near-natural characteristics.
Effects on planning applications and procedures
The new green space ratio is already subject to a “negative prior effect”. This means that planning applications will be assessed according to both the previous and the new regulations. Projects that are still in the approval phase must fulfil both criteria.
No value-added tax required
As the amendments do not result in any planning advantages, there is no obligation to pay compensation in accordance with the law on value-added compensation.
Public consultation and participation
The planning documents for the partial revision of the BZO will be open to the public from 27 November 2024 to 27 January 2025. Objections can be submitted to the Office for Urban Development during this period. Interested citizens are invited to actively participate and voice their concerns.
Winterthur is showing foresight with the implementation of the IVHB building concepts. Standardised definitions and sustainable building regulations strengthen the legal framework and create a future-oriented basis for urban developments.