Firearms Permit for Sports Shooters in Den Haag
For residents of Den Haag, a firearms permit for sports shooters grants official permission from the Chief of Police of the Police Unit Den Haag to possess, transport, and use firearms and ammunition exclusively for competitive sports. This permit adheres to the strict Firearms and Ammunition Act and is available only to active members of recognized shooting associations in the region, such as the Shooting Association 's-Gravenhage.
What is a firearms permit for sports shooters?
The firearms permit for sports shooters in Den Haag, also known as the personal weapons permit (PWB), allows you to legally purchase and use firearms at local shooting ranges. It is not an unlimited right but is subject to strict conditions. In Den Haag, sports shooters may use weapons only for training and competitions in disciplines such as small-bore, large-bore, or pistol shooting.
Note: Recreational shooting does not qualify; competitive sports are required. You must be a member of a Dynamic Sports Collective (DSC)-recognized association. Without a permit, you risk criminal prosecution, seizure, and fines up to €9,000 or imprisonment, handled by the District Court of Den Haag.
Legal basis
The rules are set out in the Firearms and Ammunition Act (Wwm), particularly Article 11 (personal weapons permit) and Article 12 (sports shooters conditions). Ministerial decrees such as the Weapons and Ammunition Decree elaborate on disciplines and calibers. The Chief of Police of the Police Den Haag decides, advised by the Central Police Services Directorate (CDPD). The Firearms Act 2024 introduces stricter standards for storage and transport in the Den Haag region.
- Art. 11 Wwm: Permit for active competitive sports.
- Art. 18 Wwm: Prohibition without permit.
- Art. 55 Wwm: Penalties for violations.
Requirements for a firearms permit in Den Haag
To obtain a permit as a resident of Den Haag, meet these requirements:
- At least 18 years old.
- Membership in a recognized shooting association (at least 1 uninterrupted year, e.g., in Den Haag).
- Active competition participation (min. 18 shooting sessions per year, 70% attendance).
- Submit a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).
- Medical examination by a police-approved doctor (no risks).
- Weapon safe: shared with the association or personal SKG*** safe.
- No criminal record posing a threat to public order.
For pistols/revolvers: additional requirements for IPSC or 25m pistol shooting.
Application procedure for Den Haag
The procedure takes approximately 26 weeks and starts through your local shooting association:
- Join a recognized Den Haag association and shoot actively for 1 year.
- Gather: VOG, medical exam, membership proof, passport photos.
- Association submits application to the Chief of Police of Police Den Haag.
- Police verifies: home visit, background check.
- Decision within 26 weeks; objection to Chief of Police or District Court of Den Haag.
Costs: €50-€100 application + €200-€300 exam. Upon moving within Den Haag: notify the Municipality of Den Haag immediately.
Rights and obligations of sports shooters in Den Haag
Rights:
- Max. 5 firearms (up to 10 for elite athletes).
- Transport to range in locked case (unloaded).
- Use only at the range under supervision.
Obligations:
- 24/7 storage in certified safe.
- Annual report on ammunition and competitions to Police Den Haag.
- Report loss/theft immediately (Art. 14 Wwm).
- No alcohol/drugs while shooting.
Practical examples Den Haag
Example 1: Jan, 25, from Den Haag, 1.5 years member of Shooting Association 's-Gravenhage. Weekly small-bore shooting. After VOG and exam, he receives PWB for .22 pistol. Unloaded transport to range, stored in safe at home.
Example 2: Maria wants large-bore rifle for hunting, but that does not fit sports shooters. Rejected; switch to hunting permit.
Example 3: Pieter misses reporting; permit revoked, weapons confiscated. Restored after fine and course via Police Den Haag.
Comparison of firearms permits
| Type | For whom? | Number of weapons | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Shooters (PWB) | Competitive shooters | Max. 5-10 | Shooting range only |
| Hunters | Hunting association | Max. 5 | Hunting grounds |
| Collectors | Collectors | Unlimited (not ready to fire) | Display |
| Professional (BM) | Security personnel | 1-2 | Work |
Tips for sports shooters in Den Haag
- Start membership at a local association early.
- Purchase SKG*** safe (€500).
- Take safety course at association.
- Keep documents digital/physical.
- Upon moving: notify Police Den Haag and Municipality within 5 days.
- Consult Juridisch Loket Den Haag for advice or objections.
Related: illegal firearm possession, Dutch firearms law.