In order to offset the existing deficit in the waste management fund, waste disposal fees in the city of Basel, which have remained unchanged for the past 18 years, have increased as of January 1, 2026.

For example, the price of a roll of ten 35-liter Bebbi Sagg (Basel’s blue trash bags) has increased from CHF 23 to CHF 27, which translates to a cost of CHF 2.70 per bag. The prices for other sizes of Bebbi Sagg have also increased: 60-liter bags now cost CHF 4.65 (up from CHF 3.30), 17-liter bags now cost CHF 1.30, and 10-liter bags are now CHF 0.75.

But it is not just the blue bags that are getting more expensive: the stickers for bulky waste have increased in cost from CHF 4.50 to CHF 5.00, and stickers for green waste have increased from CHF 3.00 to CHF 4.15. Green waste can be disposed of in a container or in a bag (leaf bag, carrier bag, etc.) with a maximum volume of 60 liters. The new stickers for bulky waste and green waste are already available in stores, but there will be a three-month transition period where the old stickers can still be used. After March 31, 2026, only the new stickers will be valid. 

Also starting this year, container fees will be calculated exclusively by weight and no longer based on stickers. This will better reflect the “polluter pays” principle. The reason for the price increases is the complete revision of the waste management ordinance, which came into force at the beginning of 2026. The revised ordinance places greater emphasis on waste prevention, reduction, and targeted recycling.

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