More info for example from ZUG

anyone know if something similar exists in Canton Vaud? ... I just had a look thru the police website but couldnt find anything ( altho yes it was a pretty cursory search )

I am not sure. But in this part of Canton Vaud, I know of at least one homeowner who had to go through a (detailed) procedure at the commune to be able to do this. Basically he had the right to post those signs, that said one could be fined by parking there, then he had the right to ticket the cars that subsequently parked there. Not sure if the future offender(s) got the ticket to pay from him or if it was funneled via the police, but he had the right to place it on the car. Check with your local commune authorities, the one in charge of police in particular.

thanks .... I suppose in thinking about it I should just start with my landlord...

obviously he owns the land in question and he's an ex-copper to boot.
(there may be no parking problems at all but as I said above my pessimistic side is expecting a "break in period" while the new neighbours learn. )

Of course, the other option here is the landlord is charging you for a public parking space.

it's a private spot( 8 spots actually ) but it's just on the edge of his property, just off of the road

As it's different people every time I'd say the retribution based methods won't work!

I think one of the lockable posts would be best (although a pain for you, too). You could also try for a larger, brighter or better positioned sign. A multilingual sign might be good too.

If it's allowed to tow, get a towing sign and tow repeat offenders.

Otherwise, why not erect a sign that says "Private Space. Available for public use at CHF 200 per 24 hour period or part thereof". Then just start invoicing (it's not a fine - just like a private car park!!).