Terrace permit
If you want to add a terrace to your pub or restaurant in the Netherlands, in most municipalities you need a terrace permit (terrasvergunning). This applies to terraces placed on public as well as on private property.
Applying for a terrace permit
You obtain a terrace permit from your municipality. If you are applying for a licence under the Licensing and Catering Act or an operating permit for a catering establishment, state on your application that you have a terrace. If you already have an operating permit for a catering establishment, a licence under the Licensing and Catering Act or an All-in-one Permit for Physical Aspects, you must have them changed. In some municipalities a supplement will suffice, and a separate terrace permit will therefore not be required.
Rules that apply
The rules for a terrace vary from one municipality to another. A terrace is only allowed outside an existing catering establishment. Your terrace may not:
- cause any damage to the road
- pose a danger to road users
- form an obstacle to road management and maintenance
Terrace season
Some municipalities have a terrace season. In that case, you receive a permit for the duration of the season. The terrace permit states the period for which it has been issued. If your municipality does not have a terrace season, you can have a terrace throughout the entire year.
Cost of a terrace permit
Most of the time, you will pay municipal administrative charges (leges) for a terrace permit. The amount of those charges is specified in the municipal administrative charges by-law. If your terrace is located on land of the municipality, then you must pay a municipal tax on encroachments on or above public land (precariobelasting).
Online application procedure via Message Box
You can submit terrace permit applications also online via Message Box. Message Box is a secure email system that enables you as an entrepreneur to exchange digital messages with Dutch government agencies.