Do you want to build, renovate, or demolish a building? Do you, for example, want to place advertising on your commercial building, cut down a tree, or install an alarm system? In the Netherlands you need to report most activities with regard to the living environment such as construction, living, monuments, environment, nature, and open space, to your local authorities. In most cases, you must also apply for an all-in-one permit for physical aspects (Omgevingsvergunning).
The all-in-permit for physical aspects is 1 permit for:
- building/construction
- living
- monuments
- living environment/space
- nature and environment
Do you need an all-in-one permit for physical aspects?
You can use an all-in-one permit for physical aspects instead of applying for several individual permits. Do you want to know if you need to report or if you need an all-in-one permit? You can do the online permit check (in Dutch) at the Service counter All-in-one permit for physical aspects (Omgevingsloket Online, OLO, in Dutch).
You apply for an all-in-one permit for example if you:
- impact the environment
- plan to build, renovate, or rebuild
- advertise on your building
- are responsible for a building’s fire safety
- intend to fell trees
- want to construct an entry or exit road
Read more on specific subjects, or consult the Dutch-language overview.
How to apply for an all-in-one permit
You apply to your municipality. Or you apply at the online Service counter all-in-one permit for physical aspects (Omgevingsloket Online, OLO). You can apply digitally or in writing. You can also authorise somebody else to apply for you. Please note that the online application service OLO is in Dutch only.
Your application should include:
- name and address of the applicant and/or the authorised person (and email address if you apply digitally)
- the location or cadastral identification of the project
- a description of the nature and size of the project, supported with a cost estimate and for instance architectural drawings, maps, photographs, or other suited materials
- if the project is carried out by a third party, their name and address
Would you like to know in advance if your application is promising or not? You can mention this during your online application. The competetent authority will then check this with you. Please note that this service is not available in every municipality.
Digital application for companies listed in the Dutch Business Register (Handelsregister)
You apply digitally through your municipality's website. Or you apply directly through the OLO website (in Dutch). You will have to identify yourself with eHerkenning with assurance level 2 or higher. If you have applied for the permit online via OLO, you can have the handling of your application proceeded through Message Box. For this you need to fill in your Message Box name with the application.
Digital application for non-resident foreign companies and non-resident foreign private persons
Non-resident foreign companies and non-resident foreign private persons cannot use eHerkenning. So, the procedure is slightly different for them. If you belong to one of these categories, you must first apply for a special account at InfoMil. There are 2 options to apply for a special account:
- Online application non-resident foreign company account (InfoMil, in Dutch)
- Online application for non-resident private person account (InfoMil, in Dutch)
Generally, you will receive your username and password within 2 days. You can use these to apply for a permit for physical aspects at the OLO website.
Written applications
For written applications there is 1 uniform form. This form is available at your municipality, which will send it to you at your request. You can also complete the (Dutch-language) paper application form online on the OLO website, then print and send it.
How long does an application take?
Usually, the comptent authorities (in general the municipality) decide within 8 weeks whether you will be granted an all-in-one permit. More complex applications may take up to 6 months.
Temporary dispensation
Are you unable to meet the requirements concerning the environment and planning laws? Then you can apply for a temporary order of tolerance (gedoogbeschikking). You apply for this dispensation, if you meet certain conditions, to a competent authority.
This type of dispensation makes it possible to carry out an activity in exceptional circumstances. For instance, when you do not have the time to go through the normal procedures due to force majeure or because you are in a transitional situation.
Objection and appeal
Has you application been denied? You can object in writing to your municipality. You must state clearly why you disagree with the decision.
Is your objection (partially) rejected by the municipal authorities? You can appeal to the court (in Dutch). You can do so up until 6 weeks after the municipality's decision. It may take a year before the judge rules on your appeal. After this procedure either you or the other party can appeal this ruling.
Online application procedure via Message Box
In the province of Noord-Brabant you can apply for this temporary exemption order via Message Box. Message Box is a secure email system that enables you as an entrepreneur to exchange digital messages with Dutch government agencies. You can send attachments with your application. Please check the name that you give to the file(s).