Event Permit Den Haag
An event permit is the official permission from the Municipality of Den Haag to organize a public event, such as a festival on Scheveningen, a market in the city center, or a sports event in Zuiderpark. This permit ensures your activity runs safely, complies with Den Haag rules, and causes no nuisance. Organizing without a permit can lead to fines or immediate shutdown by the mayor.
What does an event permit in Den Haag entail?
The permit sets conditions for using public spaces during public gatherings. It covers temporary events that disrupt daily order, such as noise, traffic congestion, or extra waste. The General Municipal Ordinance (APV) of Den Haag defines 'event' broadly, from a fair on the Plein to a concert in Westbroekpark.
Small private parties, like a birthday in your garden in the Schilderswijk, usually do not require a permit. But if external guests use the sidewalk or street, an application is mandatory.
When is an event permit required in Den Haag?
You need a permit for activities that:
- Occupy or block public roads;
- Produce excessive noise above Den Haag standards;
- Involve alcohol sales (additional hospitality permit may be needed);
- Attract more than 50 visitors;
- Include setups like stages, tents, or stalls.
Den Haag examples:
- Required: A neighborhood party with stalls on Fahrenheitstraat, a beach run on Scheveningen, or a music festival in Zuiderpark.
- Not required: A private meeting in a hall or a small barbecue in a private garden without street use.
Consult the APV of the Municipality of Den Haag on their website or contact the Legal Aid Office Den Haag for advice.
Legal basis for event permits in Den Haag
The event permit is based on the Municipalities Act (articles 151-156), under which the Municipality of Den Haag sets rules via the APV. There is a specific Events Ordinance Den Haag. Relevant laws include:
- Noise: Activities Decree Environmental Management.
- Safety: Safety Regions Act and mayor's powers.
- Alcohol: Alcohol Act (art. 3).
The mayor of Den Haag may refuse if there are risks to public order, health, or the environment. More on permits from the government? See our article Applying for permits from the government.
Applying for an event permit in Den Haag: step-by-step guide
Submit your application via the Digitaal Loket of the Municipality of Den Haag (Omgevingsloket+ or Events Portal). Follow these steps:
- Check requirement: Review the APV and consult the Den Haag events coordinator.
- Prepare documents: Risk analysis, site plan, insurance, operations manual.
- Submit: At least 20 working days in advance (8-12 weeks for larger events).
- Pay fees: Await decision (max. 8 weeks, Awb art. 4:18).
- Comply: Meet conditions; report changes.
Application deadlines in Den Haag
| Type of event | Application deadline | Den Haag example |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 500 people) | 20 working days | Neighborhood picnic |
| Medium (500-5000 people) | 8 weeks | Fair on the Plein |
| Large (5000+ people) | 12-16 weeks | Beach festival Scheveningen |
Costs of event permit Den Haag
Fees depend on scale: €50-€500 for small-scale, thousands for large. Extras: noise study (€300+), traffic management. Non-profits with ANBI status can apply for exemption from the Municipality of Den Haag.
Rights and obligations as an organizer in Den Haag
Rights:
- Decision within deadline (Awb art. 4:17).
- Objection to District Court Den Haag or appeal (Awb art. 7:1).
Obligations:
- Comply with conditions (noise, waste management).
- Liable for damage (liability insurance essential).
- Report changes (Awb art. 4:24).
Violations: fines up to €20,500 (APV) or shutdown.
Den Haag case studies
Case 1: Soccer club in Moerwijk applied for tournament with stalls. Approved with limit until 22:00.
Case 2: Neighborhood party in Transvaal without permit: €1,400 fine. Tip: check in advance!
Case 3: Large event on Scheveningen: permit with 50 requirements, incl. first aid and traffic plan. Costs: €2,500 fees + €5,000 extras.
Frequently asked questions Den Haag
Permit for wedding in Zuiderpark?
No for small group (up to 20), but yes for music/catering. Check APV Den Haag.
Delayed decision?
Claim penalty (Awb art. 4:18) after 8 weeks.
Revocation by mayor?
Yes, in case of danger (Municipalities Act art. 174), with hearing.
Fireworks on New Year's Eve?
Via APV; often professionals only.
Tips for Den Haag organizers
- Start early: 3 months for complex events.
- Involve stakeholders: Neighbors, emergency services, businesses, and the Legal Aid Office Den Haag.
- Safety first: Collaborate with Safety Region Haaglanden.