Administrative authorities

In Switzerland, administrative authorities exist at federal, cantonal and municipal levels and include departments, offices, commissions and specialised agencies. They apply legislation, grant permits, supervise regulated sectors, levy charges, provide services and enforce public duties. Their powers depend on legal competence, procedure and constitutional principles such as legality, equality, proportionality, good faith and the right to be heard. Many authorities act through administrative decisions that may be challenged before higher administrative bodies or courts, depending on the applicable procedural law.