Environmental Permit for Terrace Activity

If you want to place a terrace at your catering establishment, you often need an environmental permit (omgevingsvergunning) for the activity 'terrace'. This permit regulates the use of public space for terrace purposes and ensures that the terrace fits within the streetscape and does not affect the livability of the area.

The permit applies to terraces on public grounds such as sidewalks, squares and parking spaces. Depending on the size, location and duration of the terrace, different conditions may apply. Municipalities have their own policies for terrace operations.

Requirements

  • Type of terrace: Permanent or seasonal terraces; permit may differ per type.
  • Application documents: Floor plan with dimensions and layout of the terrace, location on public grounds, number of tables and chairs, any canopy or heating.
  • Catering permit: You must have a valid operating permit for the catering establishment.
  • Stakeholders: Owner or operator of the catering establishment, or authorized representative.

Procedure

  • Submit application: Online via the Omgevingsloket (Environment Portal), using DigiD (individuals) or eHerkenning (businesses).
  • Competent authority: The municipality where the terrace is placed is the competent authority.
  • Processing period: According to statutory periods of the Omgevingswet (Environment and Planning Act).
  • Terrace season: Many municipalities have fixed dates for the terrace season (e.g. April 1 - October 31).
  • Terrace tax: Municipal charges (precariorechten) may apply for the use of public land.

Restrictions

  • Dimensions: The terrace may not block the passage; often a minimum passage width must be maintained (e.g. 1.5 meters).
  • Opening hours: Municipalities may impose restrictions on opening hours to prevent noise nuisance.
  • Refusal: The permit can be refused if there is too great an impact on public space, traffic safety or in case of complaints from local residents.