Getting a fine in Switzerland can be stressful, whether it’s a parking ticket, an SBB transport penalty, or a traffic violation. Many people pay immediately without knowing they have the right to contest it. Below, we explain how fines work in Switzerland, how to challenge them properly, what deadlines to respect, and how to avoid paying unfair charges.

1. Types of Fines in Switzerland

• Parking fines: Common in cities like Geneva, Zurich, Lausanne. Usually between CHF 40–120.
• Public transport (SBB, trams, buses) fines: Typically CHF 100 if caught without a valid ticket or validation.
• Traffic fines: For speeding, red light, or phone use - penalties range from CHF 40 to several hundred francs, depending on the offense.

2. Can You Contest a Fine in Switzerland?

Yes. Under Swiss law, you always have the right to contest or appeal a fine. Your success depends on the details, issuing authority, canton, and your specific case.

• Parking fines: Contestable if signs were unclear, or your ticket was still valid.
• SBB/transport fines: Contestable if you had a valid ticket but made a minor mistake (e.g., wrong zone, forgot to validate, app error).
• Traffic fines: Harder, but possible if equipment or process errors occurred (e.g., radar calibration issues).

3. Important Deadlines

• Objection letter (“Einsprache” / “Opposition”): Usually must be submitted within 30 days. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to contest.

Always keep the original fine document, your ticket or pass, and proofs (photos, receipts, etc.).

Keywords: contest fine Switzerland, objection letter Switzerland, 30-day fine appeal.

4. How to Contest a Fine - Step by Step

1. Read the fine carefully: Identify the issuer (police, commune, or SBB) and the deadline.
2. Gather evidence: Photos, tickets, receipts, app screenshots, witness statements.
3. Write an objection letter: Clearly explain why the fine is unfair and provide supporting evidence.
4. Send it to the correct authority before the deadline (registered mail recommended).
5. Wait for the reply: The fine may be reduced, canceled, or upheld.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the fine (costs increase over time).
• Paying immediately without checking if it’s contestable.
• Missing the 30-day deadline.
• Writing emotional letters without facts or evidence.

6. The Easy Way — Use AI to Check Your Fine

Contesting a fine alone takes hours of research or expensive legal help.

That’s why we built NoFineAI - a smart AI tool that analyzes your Swiss fine instantly.

• Upload your fine or enter its details.
• Our AI checks Swiss regulations across all cantons.
• Get an instant result: Contestable ✅ / Maybe ⚠️ / Difficult ❌.
• If contestable, you can generate a ready-to-send objection letter in seconds.

👉 Check your fine for free now

Fines in Switzerland can be costly, but you always have the right to verify if they’re fair. Whether it’s a parking fine, an SBB transport penalty, or a traffic violation, you can contest it if you act quickly and use the right arguments.

Don’t pay blindly - use NoFineAI to check your fine instantly and save money.