Second-Home Rules in Montreux and the Swiss Riviera

Montreux and Lex Weber

Montreux is a restricted municipality under Lex Weber — its proportion of secondary residences exceeds the 20 percent threshold. No new secondary residences can be built in Montreux. The available stock of second homes consists entirely of existing properties.

The restriction applies to the municipality of Montreux as a whole, including its constituent villages and neighbourhoods: Montreux town centre, Clarens, Territet, Veytaux and the surrounding areas. Buyers should confirm the specific municipal classification of any property they are considering.

Surrounding municipalities

The municipalities surrounding Montreux on the Swiss Riviera have varying Lex Weber status. Some — including Villeneuve and parts of the Lavaux wine region — are also restricted. Others may be below the 20 percent threshold and therefore permit new secondary residences.

Buyers who are open to locations beyond Montreux itself should check the Lex Weber status of each municipality they are considering. The Federal Office for Spatial Development (ARE) publishes an annual list of restricted municipalities.

The Chablais and Vaud Alps

The Vaud Alps — including Villars-sur-Ollon, Les Diablerets and Leysin — are popular ski resort areas within reach of Montreux. These municipalities are also subject to Lex Weber restrictions, as their secondary residence proportions are high. Buyers seeking a ski chalet in addition to a lakeside property should be aware that the same supply constraints apply.

The combination of Lex Weber supply restrictions and consistent demand from Swiss and international buyers has supported values across the Swiss Riviera and the Vaud Alps.

Practical implications for buyers

Buyers considering the Swiss Riviera and surrounding areas should approach their search with an understanding that the entire region is characterised by constrained supply of secondary residences. New-build second homes are not available. The market is a resale market, and inventory is limited.

Working with a specialist agent who covers the full Swiss Riviera — including both lakeside and mountain properties — provides the broadest access to available inventory and the best chance of identifying the right property.

Key points

• Montreux is a Lex Weber-restricted municipality — no new secondary residences
• The restriction covers all of Montreux's constituent villages and neighbourhoods
• Surrounding municipalities have varying Lex Weber status — check each individually
• The Vaud Alps ski resorts are also subject to Lex Weber restrictions
• The entire Swiss Riviera region is characterised by constrained second-home supply