Picking rules

Zurich’s fruit trees are a gift to everyone. These rules help keep it that way: for owners, neighbours, nature and the next person who comes by.

  1. Not every tree is public

    The map shows trees maintained by the city, but many stand on school grounds, in cemeteries, residential estates, sports grounds or behind fences. A dot on the map is not permission to enter. If an area is fenced, locked or marked private, stay out or ask first.

  2. Respect signs and owners

    Some orchard trees are tended or leased by farmers, associations or schools, and the fruit belongs to them. If a sign says no picking, or someone asks you to stop, please do so.

  3. Schools and kindergartens

    Only visit outside school hours. Fruit at kindergartens is often meant for the children, so leave it. Ask the caretaker if you are unsure.

  4. Cemeteries

    Cemeteries are places of mourning. Be quiet, keep your distance from graves and ceremonies, and skip picking if it doesn’t feel right.

  5. Take only what you need

    Take a reasonable amount for your own use and leave plenty for others, and for birds and insects. No commercial collecting.

  6. Treat the tree gently

    Don’t climb, shake hard or break branches, and don’t lean ladders against young trees. Start with fruit that has already fallen.

  7. Stay on paths

    Don’t trample flower meadows, beds or young plantings. Respect nature reserves and take your rubbish home.

  8. Be sure what you eat

    Only eat fruit you can identify with certainty. Horse chestnuts are poisonous. Elderberries, rowan berries, quinces and sloes need cooking. When in doubt, leave it.

  9. Wash before eating

    Wash fruit from near busy roads, dog areas or sprayed areas well, or cook it.

  10. Help keep the map right

    Trees are cut down or replanted, and the register isn’t perfect. If a tree is gone or stands on private land, let us know at .

Disclaimer

You pick at your own risk. Züri Früchte gives no guarantee that a tree is accessible, that picking is allowed, or that the fruit is safe to eat. The tree data comes from the city’s tree register and may be out of date.