Amusement Arcade Exploitation License
An amusement arcade exploitation license (speelautomatenhal exploitatievergunning) is required to operate an establishment where gambling machines are the primary attraction. In addition to this license, you need a separate presence permit (aanwezigheidsvergunning) for each individual gaming machine in the arcade.
The license is issued by the municipality based on the General Local Regulation (APV). Municipalities set rules on the number of permitted arcades, their locations, opening hours, and addiction prevention measures. The application process includes a background check (Bibob screening) on the operator. Not all municipalities allow amusement arcades, so check local policy before investing in a location.
Requirements
- Location: The amusement arcade must meet municipal zoning and location requirements
- Operator: The applicant must meet personal requirements and must not have been recently convicted of relevant criminal offenses
- Presence permit: A separate presence permit from the Gaming Authority is required for each gaming machine
- Exploitation plan: A plan must be submitted with measures for addiction prevention and youth protection
Procedure
- Submit application: Submit an application to the municipality with all required documents
- Assessment: The municipality assesses whether all conditions in the local regulations are met
- Public consultation: Stakeholders can submit their views during the procedure
- Decision: The municipality makes a decision and issues the license or rejects the application
Restrictions
- Opening hours: The municipality can impose restrictions on the opening hours of the amusement arcade
- Distance to schools: Minimum distances to schools and other sensitive locations may apply
- Number of arcades: Some municipalities apply a maximum number of permitted amusement arcades
- Supervision and enforcement: The municipality regularly conducts checks on compliance with license conditions