Shop Opening Hours Exemption

A shop opening hours exemption (winkeltijdenontheffing) is a permit that allows you to keep your shop open longer than the permitted opening hours on a one-time basis. This exemption is granted under the Shop Opening Hours Act (Winkeltijdenwet), which regulates the times when shops may be open.

The exemption is intended for business owners who wish to open their shop outside regular hours on special occasions. The municipality processes your application within 8 weeks. You can apply for the exemption digitally using eHerkenning (digital authentication system).