Street Names and House Numbers; Assignment

Street Naming

The authority to name public streets (and squares) is a matter of local self-government for municipalities. This authority also includes the right to change existing names. Street naming requires a resolution by the municipal council or a decision-making committee, unless it involves replacing name signs on already named streets that have become illegible. Street naming is at the discretion of the municipality. The municipality enjoys broad discretion in choosing a street name; however, the general limits of that discretion must be observed. The chosen street name must not be offensive or violate criminal laws or the democratic constitutional order. When renaming a street, the existing interests of residents in retaining the previous street name must be taken into account as part of the balancing of interests. Street naming can be used to honor deserving citizens and to preserve local traditions.

Street Name Signs

Within the scope of its authority regarding the development of real property, the federal legislature has established regulations in Section 126 of the Building Code governing identification markers and information signs for development facilities and for (house) numbers. The owner must tolerate the installation, alteration, and removal of identification and information signs for development facilities (street name signs, including explanations of the name and details of the properties located along the street) on his or her property; however, they are not obligated to install them. Access to the property for this purpose must also be permitted. The costs of installing street name signs cannot be passed on to the owners of the adjacent properties.

House Numbering

Property owners are required to mark their property with the house number assigned by the municipality. This obligation includes procuring, installing, maintaining, and bearing the cost of the sign. In the event of a renumbering, the owner must also bear the cost of the new number sign. The numbering requirement applies to both developed and undeveloped properties. Municipalities regulate house numbering through bylaws, which may also specify the appearance of the number signs and where they are to be installed.