Municipality bans dogs at the Dersbach lake access point

The Hünenberg municipality is to ban dogs from the Dersbach lake access point. The municipal council is thereby responding to feedback from residents, and is also examining other potential recreational areas on Lake Zug.
 

The so-called "open space by the lake" near the boat launch area in Hünenberg is apparently popular. This is shown by a survey conducted by the municipality: 479 responses were received between May 2024 and September 2025. According to a recent press release, the direct access to Lake Zug and the natural design of the area are among the features most appreciated.

At the same time, the evaluation revealed that the intensive use also leads to conflicts. Opinions differ, especially regarding dogs. The municipal council is now responding with a new regulation: starting in the 2026 season, dogs will be banned from the open space by the lake from the beginning of May to the end of September. During the rest of the year, dogs are still permitted, but only on a leash.

This location is one of the few lake access points in Hünenberg     Photo supplied/Municipality of Hünenberg
 

According to the municipality, the survey received several responses on the topic. A majority of those surveyed favoured a ban on dogs, or at least a strict leash requirement. Other participants, however, were pleased that dogs had been allowed so far. The statement further explains that a spatial separation of users with and without dogs is not possible on the property. The municipal council has therefore opted for a compromise.

Some people want more
The lake access in the Dersbach area has become a popular spot on Lake Zug over the past two years. In the survey, 52% of the participants rated the location as "good as it is," while 48% saw potential for development.

In addition to the dog policy, the feedback reveals other areas of tension. A minority would like more amenities, such as a restaurant, a sauna, more comfortable seating, or a barbecue area. The majority, on the other hand, appreciates the simplicity of the location. The municipal council therefore does not intend to implement any major additional measures for the time being in order to preserve the identity and character of this "open space." Only one additional simple seating area was installed In the upper area. According to the announcement, those wishing to barbecue can find suitable facilities in the surrounding area.

Hünenberg had already implemented immediate measures in the spring of 2025. Since then, a handrail has been installed for safe entry into the lake, along with a restroom. Furthermore, the meadow is regularly maintained by the municipal works department (Werkdienst). These measures have mitigated key criticisms, according to the evaluation report.

The survey also shows that some residents would like additional locations with direct lake access. The municipal council takes this need seriously, and is examining further possibilities.