Getting a handle on housing
Control over housing through the Parkstad Act and accelerated housing construction
How can we get a grip on housing?
For a healthy neighborhood, it is important that there are all types of housing and that people with different incomes and levels of education live together. This strengthens our neighborhoods, education, the economy, and opportunities for future generations. The municipality wants to achieve this through three housing pillars:
Investing
There are many affordable rental and owner-occupied homes, but too few homes in the mid-range and higher segments. That is why the municipality wants to accelerate the construction of new and more diverse types of homes. Thanks to the new homes, we can prevent Heerlen residents who want to live in larger homes from leaving. It also makes it easier for professionals who work here to find suitable housing.
Cherish
By investing in neighborhoods and applying the Parkstad Act, we ensure that we protect and strengthen existing neighborhoods. This allows us to retain our residents and talent. Workers, young people, and key professionals are given the opportunity to continue living in Heerlen. People with important professions remain in the city and ensure that it stays strong.
Regulate
This means that we are improving the balance in our neighborhoods. In some neighborhoods, this requires additional guidance. The Parkstad Act is one of the tools that the municipality uses for this purpose. This act allows the municipality Requirements additional Requirements on the renting or letting of homes in certain neighborhoods. This ensures that neighborhoods remain livable and pleasant places to live.
What is the Parkstad Act?
The Parkstad Act is the nickname for the Act on Special Measures for Metropolitan Problems (Wbmgp). This act allows the municipality Requirements additional Requirements on who may rent or let a rental property in certain neighborhoods. This keeps the neighborhood in balance and prevents problems from escalating. This act applies:
- only for designated neighborhoods and streets in Heerlen
- only for rental properties
The law came into effect on January 1, 2026.
When is a permit required?
- New tenants in a Parkstadwet neighborhood require a housing permit.
- Did you already live there before January 2026? Then nothing will change.
- Landlords sometimes need a landlord's license.
See also the pages on renting and letting and buying.
Questions?
Do you have any questions or need assistance? Please contact the municipality or send an email to parkstadwet@heerlen.nl.
Park City neighborhoods
Check the Map to see Map which neighborhoods and streets the Parkstad Act applies.