Federal Supreme Court limits extension of existing homes in Val de Bagnes

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The Federal Supreme Court dismisses two appeals and confirms that wellness, fitness, sauna, pool and play rooms in a project to demolish and rebuild a chalet constitute main usable areas. Including the counted areas, the construction project exceeds the maximum permitted extension of 30 per cent of the pre-existing main usable area under the Federal Act on Second Homes.

Decision

The Federal Supreme Court dismisses the appeals and confirms the cantonal decision’s revocation of the building permit.

Main usable area

The disputed rooms for recreation and leisure must be counted as main usable areas under Art. 11 para. 2 of the Federal Act on Second Homes.

Permitted extension

Including the counted areas, the construction project exceeds the maximum permitted extension of 30 per cent of the pre-existing main usable area.

Sources

Federal Supreme Court, judgments 1C_317/2025 and 1C_319/2025 of 11 August 2026, considerations 3.4–3.6 and operative part.