Permit to use property as a residence

You need an environmental permit if you want to use a building as a residence. You can apply for the permit via the Environmental Permit Desk.

Arrange online

Approach

How to apply for an environmental permit:

Go to the Environment Desk.
Perform the permit check. You can then apply for the permit immediately.
Log in:
- for yourself: with DigiD
- for a company: with eHerkenning
You provide:
- the building's details
- how you intend to use the property

Costs

For the costs of parts of the environmental permit, see the fees regulation.

Description

You may not simply use a building that is not a residence as a residence. For example, an office building or shop. You first need an environmental permit for this.

Requirements

The most important Requirements :

The building meets the minimum requirements applicable to residential properties. These requirements are set out in the Building Decree.
Depending on the location, the municipality may impose specific requirements.

Term

The municipality will make a decision within 8 weeks of receiving your application. The municipality may extend this period once by 6 weeks.

Objections and appeals

Do you disagree with the municipality’s decision? If so, you can file an objection. This allows you to explain why you disagree. Other people who are directly affected by the decision may also file an objection. You must file an objection within 6 weeks. The municipality will then make a new decision. If you disagree with that new decision, you can ask the court to determine whether the municipality made the right decision. This is called “filing an appeal.” You must do so within 6 weeks. You can only file an appeal if you have previously filed an objection.