Ban on the use of biocidal products for algae and moss control on roofs and terraces in Switzerland – Current regulations

Ban on the use of biocidal products for algae and moss control on roofs and terraces in Switzerland – Current regulations

The ban has been in effect since December 1, 2020.

An amendment to the Swiss Ordinance on Chemical Risk Reduction (ORRChim, RS 814.81) prohibits the use of biocidal products against algae and moss on compact surfaces. "Anti-moss" or "anti-algae" type products (product types 2 and 10) may no longer be used on these surfaces.

Exact legal text (Annex 2.4, ch. 4 bis.2 ORRChim)

It is forbidden to use biocidal products against algae and mosses:

• on roofs and terraces;
• on the locations used for storage;
• on roads, paths and squares and their surroundings;
• on embankments and strips of greenery along roads and railways.

What remains permitted

• Use on facades (provided that the product is properly authorized and labeled in Switzerland).
• The fight against algae indoors.
• Non-biocidal cleaning products (simple detergents without biocidal active substance).

Recommended alternatives for roofs and terraces

Since biocidal products are prohibited on these surfaces, mechanical methods should be preferred:

• Manual or mechanical brushing
• High-pressure cleaning (with wastewater recovery)
• Steam or hot water cleaning

Scalp range at Paint Store

We offer the Scalp range (SCALP ANTI-M, SCALP ANTI-M 3100, SCALPFUGE ANTI-M, etc.).
These products are effective biocidal algaecides for authorized uses (mainly facades and protection of vertical masonry).

Important : They cannot be used on the roofs, terraces and surfaces listed above in Switzerland.
For these areas, we recommend the mechanical solutions mentioned above.

Official sources

• BAFU – Biocidal products against algae and mosses (updated September 2025)
• Fedlex – ORRChim, Appendix 2.4
• Anmeldestelle – Distinction between cleaning products and biocides