Environmental Permit for Flora and Fauna Activity

An environmental permit for flora and fauna activity is required for activities that may be harmful to protected plants and animals. This applies, for example, if as a result of your activities you destroy prohibited nests or habitats of protected animals, kill, catch or disturb protected animals, or pick protected plants or destroy their growing sites.

The permit is issued by the municipality, province or national government, depending on the protected species and location. You apply for the permit via the Omgevingsloket (Environmental Portal). The competent authority assesses whether the activity can be permitted under conditions that limit damage to flora and fauna.

Requirements

  • Application form: Complete form via the Omgevingsloket
  • Ecological survey: Inventory of protected species at the location
  • Activity description: Detailed description of the intended work
  • Mitigation measures: Plan to limit damage to flora and fauna
  • Compensation: If necessary, description of compensatory measures

Procedure

  • Submit application: Via the Omgevingsloket to the competent authority
  • Competent authority: Municipality, province or national government, depending on the species and location
  • Processing time: Decision within 8 weeks, possible extension for complex cases
  • Ecological advice: Advice is often requested from nature organizations or experts
  • Conditions: Permit may be granted with strict conditions to protect flora and fauna

Scope of Application

  • Protected animals: Destroying nests, killing, catching or disturbing protected animal species
  • Protected plants: Picking protected plants or destroying growing sites
  • Construction projects: Often required for construction and demolition activities in nature areas