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Event Permit Rotterdam

Learn how to apply for an event permit from Municipality Rotterdam for festivals, markets or sports in the city. Steps, costs and tips (128 characters)

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Event Permit Rotterdam

An event permit is the official permission from the Municipality of Rotterdam to organize a public event, such as a festival along the Maas, a market at the Cube Houses or a sports event in Kralingse Bos. This permit ensures your activity runs safely, complies with Rotterdam's rules and causes no nuisance. Organizing without a permit can lead to a fine or immediate shutdown by the mayor.

What does an event permit in Rotterdam entail?

The permit sets conditions for the temporary use of public spaces during events open to the public. This covers activities that disrupt daily order in Rotterdam, such as noise from parties in harbor areas, traffic congestion around the Erasmus Bridge or extra litter in neighborhoods. The General Local Ordinance (APV) of Rotterdam defines 'event' broadly, from a fair in Oude Haven to a major concert in Ahoy.

Small private parties, like a birthday in your Rotterdam backyard, usually do not require a permit. But as soon as external visitors use the sidewalk or street, such as at a block party in Delfshaven, an application is mandatory.

When is an event permit required in Rotterdam?

You need a permit if your event:

  • Occupies the public road, such as stalls on West-Kruiskade;
  • Exceeds noise limits in busy areas;
  • Serves alcohol (additional catering permit via Municipality of Rotterdam may be needed);
  • Attracts more than 50 visitors;
  • Includes temporary setups like stages or tents.

Examples in Rotterdam:

  • Required: A neighborhood party with stalls on the street in Feijenoord, a running route along the Willemsbrug or a festival in Zuiderpark.
  • Not required: A private gathering in a hall on Coolsingel or a small BBQ without using public space.

Consult the Rotterdam APV on rotterdam.nl or contact the Legal Advice Center Rotterdam for advice.

Legal basis for event permit Rotterdam

The event permit is based on the Municipalities Act (art. 151-156), under which the Municipality of Rotterdam sets rules via the APV. Rotterdam also applies a specific Events Ordinance. Relevant laws include:

  • Noise: Activities Decree environmental management.
  • Safety: Safety Regions Act and mayor's decision.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol Act (art. 3).

The mayor may refuse issuance if risks arise to public order, health or the environment in Rotterdam. More info in our article on applying for permits.

How to apply for an event permit from Municipality Rotterdam? Step-by-step guide

Applications go through the Digital Counter at rotterdam.nl/evenementen. Follow these steps:

  1. Check requirement: Review the Rotterdam APV and call the events desk.
  2. Gather documents: Risk analysis, site plan, insurance, operations manual.
  3. Submit: At least 20 working days in advance (8-12 weeks for large events like World Port Days).
  4. Pay fees: Decision within max. 8 weeks (Awb art. 4:18).
  5. Comply: Upon approval, meet conditions; report changes.

Application deadlines in Rotterdam

Type of eventApplication deadlineRotterdam example
Small (up to 500 people)20 working daysNeighborhood picnic Kralingse Plas
Medium (500-5000 people)8 weeksMarket in Witte de Withstraat
Large (5000+ people)12-16 weeks

Costs of event permit Rotterdam

Fees at Municipality Rotterdam: €50-€500 for small events, thousands for large-scale ones. Extras: noise study (€300+), traffic controllers. Non-profits with ANBI status can apply for waivers.

Rights and obligations as Rotterdam organizer

Rights:

  • Decision within deadline (Awb art. 4:17).
  • Objection at District Court Rotterdam or appeal (Awb art. 7:1).

Obligations:

  • Comply with conditions (noise, waste).
    • Liability for incidents (liability insurance).
    • Report changes (Awb art. 4:24).

    Violations: fines up to €20,500 (APV Rotterdam) or shutdown.

    Practical cases Rotterdam

    Case 1: Soccer tournament in Overschie: permit for field and stalls, approved with 22:00 cutoff.

    Case 2: Neighborhood party in Charlois without permit: €1,400 fine. Tip: check in advance!

    Case 3: Festival in Rotterdam polder: 50 conditions incl. first aid and traffic plan. Costs: €2,500 fees + €5,000 extras.

    Frequently asked questions Rotterdam

    Permit needed for wedding in the Park?

    No for small groups (<20 people), but yes for music/catering. See Rotterdam APV.

    Municipality decision too late?

    Statutory penalty after 8 weeks (Awb art. 4:18).

    Mayor revoke it?

    Yes, in case of danger (Municipalities Act art. 174), with hearing.

    Fireworks New Year's Eve Rotterdam?

    Via APV; often for professionals.

    Tips for Rotterdam organizers

    • Start early: 3 months ahead for busy areas.
    • Involve stakeholders: Neighbors, Safety Region Rotterdam-Rijnmond, businesses.
    • Contact Legal Advice Center Rotterdam for free check.
    • Use rotterdam.nl for templates and checklists.