Submitting a Zienswijze to the Municipality of Den Haag
Submitting a zienswijze gives residents of Den Haag the opportunity to respond in writing to a draft decision by a local administrative body, such as the Municipality of Den Haag. This allows you to share your viewpoint before a final decision is made. This is an important right under administrative law, for example in cases of administrative fines in the city.
What is a zienswijze in Den Haag?
Under administrative law, an authority such as the Municipality of Den Haag or the Tax Authorities will often notify you in advance of an 'intention' or draft decision. You may then submit a zienswijze: a substantiated letter in which you explain your interests and argue for amendment or withdrawal. This helps the authority make a well-considered decision, taking into account local Den Haag situations such as parking rules or permits.
Unlike an objection, which follows a final decision, a zienswijze can prevent unwanted outcomes and save you procedures at the District Court of Den Haag.
Legal basis
The procedure for a zienswijze is laid down in the General Administrative Law Act (Awb), in particular Article 3:2 Awb. The administrative body must:
- Inform interested parties of the intention.
- Provide a reasonable response period (often 2 to 6 weeks).
- Take your zienswijze into account in the final decision.
Article 3:4 Awb provides for an option of a hearing, and Article 3:5 Awb requires serious consideration. If there are errors, you can lodge an objection due to procedural shortcomings.
When to submit a zienswijze in Den Haag?
As an interested party (Article 1:2 Awb) in relation to an intention by the Municipality of Den Haag, such as:
- Administrative fines: Draft fine from the municipality for parking in the city centre.
- Environmental permits: Refusal for construction work in Den Haag neighbourhoods.
- Tax assessments: Intention to impose additional levy.
- Subsidies: Withdrawal of local support.
Den Haag example: You receive a letter from the Municipality of Den Haag about a draft fine of €500 for improper parking near the Binnenhof. The letter provides 4 weeks to submit a zienswijze. You respond with arguments about unclear markings and attach photos from the Laan van Wateringsveld.
Step-by-step guide to your zienswijze
Submitting to Den Haag authorities:
- Read the letter carefully: Note the deadline, address and file number from the Municipality of Den Haag.
- Respect the deadline: Send in good time by registered mail or email with confirmation.
- Structure your letter:
- Your contact details and case number.
- Brief summary of the intention.
- Factual arguments with evidence (photos from Den Haag, statements).
- Desired outcome: cancellation, amendment or waiver.
- Include supporting documents: Strengthen your case with locally relevant material.
- Send and archive: Keep copies.
The Municipality of Den Haag will respond with a final decision within a reasonable time. For assistance: call the Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Rights and obligations
Rights:
- Free zienswijze or hearing.
- Access to the file (Article 8:42 Awb).
- Justification of your input in the decision.
Obligations:
- Remain factual and reasoned.
- Respond only as an interested party.
Zienswijze vs. objection and appeal in Den Haag
| Aspect | Zienswijze | Objection | Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timing | Before final decision | After decision (6 weeks) | After objection (6 weeks, District Court of Den Haag) |
| Costs | Free | Free | Court fee (€183 for individuals) |
| Effect | Prevents issues | Internal review | Ruling by District Court of Den Haag |
| Deadline | 2-6 weeks | 6 weeks | 6 weeks |
Den Haag practice examples
Example 1: Parking fine. Improper parking in a disabled spot in Scheveningen. Zienswijze with photos of unclear signs: fine from Municipality of Den Haag cancelled.
Example 2: Permit. Draft for extension in Transvaal that blocks the view. Your zienswijze with measurements leads to amendment.
Example 3: Supplementary assessment. Intention for OZB supplementary levy. Proof of correct payment: sanction dropped.
Frequently asked questions
Can I submit a zienswijze orally in Den Haag?
No, it must be in writing (Art. 3:2 Awb). Request a hearing from the Municipality of Den Haag (Art. 3:4).
Submitted too late?
Risk of rejection. Request extension with reason, or objection later on procedural errors.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not always, but for complex Den Haag cases: free advice from Juridisch Loket Den Haag (070-361 99 66).