Business Operation License

A business operation license (bedrijfsexploitatievergunning) is a municipal permit required for operating certain types of businesses, particularly hospitality establishments, night shops, and other businesses that may affect public order or cause nuisance. The license is issued under the General Local Ordinance (Algemene Plaatselijke Verordening, APV) of your municipality.

The municipality assesses your application based on the type of business, its location, opening hours, and the potential impact on the surrounding area. Requirements vary by municipality, as each sets its own conditions regarding safety, hygiene, and nuisance prevention. You must obtain this license before you start operating, and it can be revoked if you violate the conditions.

Requirements

  • Legal basis: Article 2:81 Model General Local Ordinance
  • Scope: Certain business types such as catering establishments, amusement arcades, liquor stores
  • Conditions: Vary per municipality and business type, may relate to opening hours, safety and hygiene

Procedure

  • Application: Submit to the municipality where the business is located
  • Assessment: The municipality checks whether the business meets the requirements
  • Period: Decision is made within the statutory period (often 8 weeks)
  • Conditions: The license may be granted with conditions regarding operation