Swiss Government Says E-foils Unlikely on Lakes Under Current Law

On January 5, 2026, the federal government replied to parliamentary questions by concluding that e-foils are not likely to be allowed on Swiss lakes without major legal change. Officials pointed to an existing prohibition on motorising vessels under 2.5 metres, a rule that applies to motorised boards regardless of mast or foil, and to practical safety constraints that would prevent normal foil operation near shore.

Under current law, motorising vessels shorter than 2.5 metres are banned. That blanket definition captures most e-foils, meaning these electric boards are treated as motorised craft rather than as sporting equipment. Officials also flagged speed restrictions inside 300-metre shoreline zones, where a 10 km/h limit makes it impossible for a foil to generate lift. Taken together, those provisions create both a legal and a physical barrier to routine e-foil use on lakes.

The government said any policy change would require a full review and broad consultation, so a quick reversal is unlikely. Officials further noted that allowing e-foils would raise questions about mandatory equipment and possible user licensing, issues that would need to be settled during a formal legislative process. A recent Swiss Federal Tribunal decision that treated an e-foil as a motorised craft in a legal case reinforces the current legal interpretation and adds weight to the government's position.

For riders and local clubs, the implications are immediate. Do not assume that an e-foil is permitted on any Swiss lake today. Verify cantonal and local rules before purchasing or operating electric-assisted boards. Pay attention to shoreline zones: the 300-metre buffer and its 10 km/h speed limit will prevent lift and may make any attempt at foiling unsafe or unlawful. Retailers and event organizers should factor the legal uncertainty into sales, rentals, and competition planning.

Longer term, the issue will move into policy discussions if parliament decides to commission a review. Until then, non-motorised foilboards and traditional surf or wind foil activities remain the clearer legal option on Swiss lakes. The community will need to watch the consultation process closely for changes to classification, equipment requirements, and licensing that could reshape how e-foil recreation is regulated in Switzerland.