Zivilgesetzbuch

Zivilgesetzbuch, literally “civil code” in German, is the term used in German-speaking jurisdictions to denote a comprehensive statute that codifies private law. Such codes regulate the legal relationships among individuals and between individuals and legal entities, covering areas such as contracts, property, family, and inheritance. The precise scope and official naming vary by country.

In Germany, the civil code is represented by the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB). Although commonly referred to in German as the civil code, the BGB is the official title. Adopted in 1896 and entering into force in 1900, the BGB structures private law into several parts: a general part that establishes foundational rules for legal capacity and interpretation; obligations (Schuldrecht), including contract and non-contractual obligations; property (Sachenrecht); and the law of family and inheritance (Familien- und Erbrecht). The BGB forms the core of German private law and is complemented by other specialized statutes.

In Switzerland, the Zivilgesetzbuch (ZGB) is the central civil code governing private law. Promulgated in 1907 and in force since 1912, the ZGB covers areas such as persons and family, property, and inheritance, with contract and obligation law largely governed alongside the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR). The ZGB provides a uniform framework across cantons for private legal relationships, while the OR handles many commercial and contractual rules.

See also: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), Schweizerisches Zivilgesetzbuch (ZGB), Allgemeines Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (ABGB) for Austria, Code of Obligations (OR).