Draft. This text has not yet been reviewed.
A few practical things that catch out many newcomers, and where to get free help in Lausanne.
Rubbish and recycling
In Lausanne, non-recyclable waste must go in official white bags marked “Trier c’est valoriser”. Other bags are not allowed and can lead to a fine. Rolls of bags are sold in ordinary shops. The City lists these prices:
- 17 litres: CHF 1.00 a bag
- 35 litres: CHF 1.95 a bag
- 60 litres: CHF 3.80 a bag
- 110 litres: CHF 6.00 a bag
Recycling is collected separately. If you live outside Lausanne, check the rules of your own commune.
The radio and television fee
Each private household pays a radio and television fee, collected by Serafe AG. The Federal Office of Communications gives the amount as CHF 335 a year. You do not need to register: communes and cantons send the details to Serafe.
Driving
If you settle in Vaud with a foreign driving licence, you have 12 months from your arrival to exchange it for a Swiss licence. Depending on the country that issued it, you may need a control drive or a medical examination.
Free help from the City of Lausanne
- Bureau lausannois pour les immigrés (BLI): free, confidential advice on work, training and daily life, at Place de la Riponne 10. Drop-in sessions in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese are held on Mondays from 17:00 to 19:00 and Saturdays from 10:00 to 12:00. For other languages, book an interpreter.
- “Vivre à Lausanne”: a practical guide from the BLI in 12 languages, including English.
- Welcome evening: the City holds an annual evening for new residents, with interpreters.
Related guides
Official sources
- Taxed bags and base tax (City of Lausanne)
- Fee for private households (Federal Office of Communications)
- Exchanging a foreign driving licence (State of Vaud)
- Living, training and working drop-in (City of Lausanne)
- Welcome offers for new residents (City of Lausanne)
Last checked: 30 October 2026. This is general information only. Please check the official sources above before you act.