Water Traffic Decision
A water traffic decision (waterverkeersbesluit) is a formal decision that regulates traffic on public waterways. It can impose speed limits, restrict certain vessel types, designate zones for specific activities such as water sports or commercial shipping, or close waterways temporarily for events or maintenance.
If your business activity on the water conflicts with a waterverkeersbesluit, you may need an exemption. This applies to charter companies, ferry operators, water sports businesses, and floating venues. Exemptions are granted by the municipality or the relevant water authority (waterschap) and ensure that the activity can take place safely.
Requirements
- Type of activity: Description of the water activity (e.g. speedboat sailing)
- Location: Specific water area where the activity takes place
- Period: For the Westeinderplassen speedboat course the period is April 1 to October 1
- Safety measures: Indication of safety facilities and emergency procedures
Procedure
- Application method: Submit application via the application form of the municipality of Aalsmeer
- Competent authority: Municipality of Aalsmeer
- Assessment: Testing against the Shipping Traffic Act (Scheepvaartverkeerswet) and local regulations
- Conditions: Conditions may be imposed on speed, sailing area and safety requirements
Restrictions
- Seasonal: Only permitted in the designated season (April 1 - October 1)
- Designated area: Only sailing on the designated speedboat course
- Safety requirements: Compliance with speed limits and safety regulations
- Other users: Taking into account other water recreationists and nature