A building permit (officially: planning permission for the activity of building) is authorisation from the municipality to construct, renovate or extend a structure. Without a permit, you may not simply build. The municipality checks whether your plan complies with the zoning plan, building regulations and design standards.
When do you need a building permit?
| Structure | Permit needed? |
|---|---|
| Shed/storage (rear garden, max 30 m2, max 3 m high) | Often not (permit-free) |
| Garden building (rear garden, max 30 m2, max 3 m high) | Often not (permit-free) |
| Garage (detached or attached) | Often yes, depending on size |
| Canopy (max 30 m2, rear garden) | Often not (permit-free) |
| Dormer (rear) | Often not (permit-free) |
| Dormer (front) | Often yes |
| Extension | Often yes, depending on floor area |
| Fence (max 2 m, rear garden) | No (permit-free) |
> Note: The rules for permit-free building are complex and depend on your specific situation (built-up area, boundary line, zoning plan). Always check with your municipality.
How do you apply for a building permit?
1. Check — Go to the Planning Portal (omgevingswet.overheid.nl) to see if you need a permit
2. Prepare drawings — Construction drawings, floor plan, elevations, cross-sections (to scale)
3. Apply — Digitally via the Planning Portal or at your municipality
4. Wait — Standard procedure: 8 weeks (extendable to 14 weeks)
5. Decision — The municipality approves or rejects (with reasons)
Costs
The fees (application costs) vary per municipality and are usually a percentage of the construction costs:
- Small structure (EUR 5,000-15,000): approximately EUR 200-500 in fees
- Larger structure (EUR 15,000-50,000): approximately EUR 500-1,500 in fees
Related terms
- Permit-free building
- Planning permission
- Zoning plan
- Design review committee
- Building regulations