Prostitutionsgewerbeverordnung (PGVO)

The Prostitution Trade Ordinance (PGVO) is the central legal basis for commercial sex work in the Canton of Zurich (in force since 2013, adjusted several times). It regulates:

• Licensing and reporting requirements for brothels and salons
• Hygiene, fire and safety standards
• Supervisory rights of the city/canton police
• Structural and local requirements (restricted zones)

Other cantons have independent regulations: Bern (Prostitution Act 2013), Geneva (LProst 2009/2017), Ticino (LProst 2017), Vaud (LPros 2004), Neuchâtel (loi sur la prostitution 2014). There is no nationwide standardization.

See also

• Salon — Establishment with several sex workers under one roof, often with reception and security staff.
• Sperrgebiet — Zone defined by the canton or municipality in which street prostitution is prohibited.
• Patentbewilligung — Official permission to operate a salon or establishment.

These definitions serve for general orientation in the Swiss erotic industry. If you have legal or medical questions, contact a specialist (see contact points) or a specialist.

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