House split into separate independent dwellings

We are talking about splitting a house when you turn an existing house into several independent dwellings. For this you need an environmental permit for an environmental planning activity and for a construction activity. Because, among other things, the requirements for fire safety change. You apply for the permit through the online Omgevingsloket.

Approach

This is how you apply for an environmental permit:

  • Go to the Environment Counter.
  • Do the permit check. You can then apply for the permit right away.
  • Log in.
  • You will need:
    • your name and address information
    • a precise description of the work
    • the details of the place
    • drawing of the existing and new situation

Cost

Look for costs in the dues ordinance 2025.

Description

You need a permit to split a home or property. For example, if you want to turn it into several apartments. The details of the division are registered in the Land Registry.

The split residential parts must comply with the requirements in the Building Works Decree (Bbl). Therefore, you may need to apply for an additional permit if the conversion changes the supporting structure. Or if the layout of the fire compartments changes . You can apply for this additional permit at the same time as the permit for residential division.

Questions? 

You can visit the Omgevingsloket Heerlen by appointment. The consultation hour is on Thursday from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 16:00 to 18:00.
You can come here with questions about, for example: change of use of the house or a renovation of your home. We will help you with the first steps you need to take.

You cannot come to the consultation hour if you have already submitted an application for an environmental permit.

Requirements

The Requirements for applying for an environmental permit for residential splitting are:

  • You are the owner of the property.

The split residential parts must conform to the requirements in the Building Works Decree for the living environment.

Term

The municipality will decide on your application within 8 weeks. Is that not possible? Then the municipality may extend this period 1 time.

Objection and appeal

Do you disagree with the municipality's decision? Then you can file an objection. By doing so, you let it be known why you disagree with the decision. Other people affected may also object. Objection must be made within 6 weeks.

Did you or someone else object to the municipality's decision? Then the municipality will make a new decision. Do you disagree with that decision? Then you can ask the court whether the municipality has made a good decision. This is called 'appeal'. Do this within 6 weeks. You can only appeal if you have objected.

You both do this within six weeks. More information can be found under: Filing an objection