Event Permit Procedure at the Municipality of Rotterdam

Event Permit Procedure at the Municipality of Rotterdam

The event permit procedure at the Municipality of Rotterdam is the official route to obtain permission for public events such as festivals along the Maas, markets in the neighborhood, or block parties in Rotterdam-South. This procedure, based on administrative law, ensures safety and order in our vibrant port city. In this article, you will find the steps, requirements, and Rotterdam examples to make your application successful.

When Do You Need an Event Permit in Rotterdam?

Not every gathering requires a permit, but larger or higher-risk events do. An event is a public gathering at a fixed time and location with an organizer, such as concerts on the Willemswerf, fairs in the district, or runs around the Erasmusbrug.

• No permit needed for private parties at home or small-scale barbecues without nuisance.
• Permit required for use of public space, noise, alcohol sales, or traffic congestion in the city.

Always check the General Local Ordinance (APV) of the Municipality of Rotterdam, as rules may vary locally. In Rotterdam, for example, a notification obligation applies to events with more than 450 attendees.

Legal Basis in Rotterdam

The procedure is governed by the APV of the Municipality of Rotterdam (articles 2.20-2.25). The General Administrative Law Act (Awb) regulates the application (art. 3:1), data requirements (art. 3:4), decision period of 8 weeks (art. 4:11), and objection/appeal (art. 7:1 et seq.).

Under the Environment and Planning Act (effective January 1, 2024), some events fall under an environmental permit, but Rotterdam often still uses the APV. Check the Municipality of Rotterdam counter or the Rotterdam Legal Aid Office for advice.

The Event Permit Procedure Step by Step in Rotterdam

Start 8-12 weeks in advance via the Rotterdam permit counter. Follow these steps:

1. Preparation: Consult the APV on rotterdam.nl and use the event checker.
2. Application: Submit digitally with DigiD/eHerkenning, including site plans, safety plan, and insurance.
3. Assessment: Officials review public order, safety, environment, and traffic; consultation with fire department and Rotterdam-Rijnmond police.
4. Public consultation: For high-impact events, Rotterdam residents can respond (Awb art. 3:12).
5. Decision: Approval, refusal, or conditions within 8 weeks (extendable to 26).
6. Follow-up: Submit aftercare report if required.

Required Documents for Rotterdam

• Detailed event plan (location, dates, attendance numbers).
• Risk dossier and safety plan.
• Liability insurance.
• Site plan with crowd control.
• Additional permits for alcohol, music, or fireworks.

Timelines and Decisions at the Municipality of Rotterdam

Decision within 8 weeks (Awb art. 4:11); if delayed, you can claim a penalty payment (art. 4:17). Possible outcomes:

• Granted: With requirements such as decibel limits around the harbor.
• Refused: Due to risks of nuisance or unsafety.
• Notification only: For small-scale gatherings.

Objection within 6 weeks; appeal to the District Court of Rotterdam. See also the objection overview or contact the Rotterdam Legal Aid Office.

Rotterdam Practice Examples

Example 1: Neighborhood Party in Delfshaven
For 100 guests in a park: Apply for APV exemption 4 weeks in advance. Cost €60; approved until 23:00.

Example 2: Festival at Kralingse Plas
5,000 attendees: Full permit with first aid, police, and noise monitoring. Applied for 12 weeks ahead; approved with conditions.

Example 3: Refusal
Route through Coolsingel refused due to traffic; approved after route adjustment.

Rights and Obligations as a Rotterdam Organizer

Rights:

• Timely decision.
• Access to file (Awb art. 3:2).
• Objection/appeal to District Court of Rotterdam.

Obligations:

• Comply with conditions.
• Remedy any damage.
• Post-event reporting.

Comparison of Small and Large Events in Rotterdam

Frequently Asked Questions about Rotterdam