Event Permit in Delft
An event permit is the official permission from the Municipality of Delft to organize a public event, such as a festival on the Market, a flea market on the Koornmarkt, or a sports event in the city center. This permit ensures your activity runs safely, complies with local rules, and respects Delft's historical charm. Without one, you risk fines or immediate shutdown by the mayor.
What does an event permit in Delft entail?
The permit sets conditions for using public spaces during public gatherings in Delft. It covers temporary events that disrupt daily life, such as noise in narrow streets, traffic around the station, or extra waste in parks like Agnetapark. The General Local Ordinance (APV) of the Municipality of Delft defines 'event' broadly, from small markets to large-scale concerts during the Delftse Feesten.
Small private parties, like a birthday in your garden on the Oude Delft, usually don't require a permit. But once external visitors use the public road, such as the Pelikaanstraat, an application is mandatory.
When is an event permit in Delft required?
You need a permit for activities that:
- Occupy or block the public road, such as on the Market;
- Produce excessive noise above Delft's standards;
- Serve alcohol (may require an additional hospitality permit from the Municipality of Delft);
- Attract more than 50 visitors;
- Include stages, tents, or stalls.
- Required: A neighborhood party with stalls on the Koornmarkt, a running route through the historic city center, or a jazz festival at the Poptahuis.
- Not required: A private gathering in a café or an intimate barbecue in a private garden without using the street.
- Noise: Activities Decree environmental management.
- Safety: Safety Regions Act and mayor's decision.
- Alcohol: Alcohol Act (art. 3).
- Check requirements: Review the APV and call the Municipality of Delft's events coordinator or the Legal Aid Desk Delft.
- Gather documents: Risk analysis, site plan (e.g., Market), insurance, program.
- Submit: At least 20 working days in advance (8-12 weeks for larger events in Delft).
- Pay fees: Await decision (max. 8 weeks, Awb art. 4:18).
- Comply: Meet conditions; report changes.
- Decision within deadline (Awb art. 4:17).
- Objection and appeal to the District Court of The Hague (Awb art. 7:1).
- Comply with conditions (noise, waste).
- Liable for damage (liability insurance).
- Report changes (Awb art. 4:24).
- Start early: 3 months ahead for events in the compact city.
- Involve locals: Neighbors, Haaglanden police, emergency services, and Market businesses.
- Consult experts: Legal Aid Desk Delft for free advice.
Delft examples:
Consult the APV of the Municipality of Delft on delft.nl or contact the Legal Aid Desk Delft for advice.
Legal basis for event permits in Delft
Based on the Municipalities Act (arts. 151-156), which allows the Municipality of Delft to set rules via the APV and a specific Events Ordinance. Relevant laws include:
The mayor of Delft may refuse if there are risks to public order, health, or the city's delicate appearance. More info in our article on applying for permits from the government.
Applying for an event permit in Delft: step-by-step guide
Submit your application via the Digital Counter on delft.nl (Environment Desk). Follow these steps:
Application deadlines in Delft
| Event type | Application deadline | Delft example |
|---|---|---|
| Small (up to 500 people) | 20 working days | Neighborhood picnic |
| Medium (500-5000 people) | 8 weeks | Flea market on Koornmarkt |
| Large (5000+ people) | 12-16 weeks | Delft Fringe Festival |
Costs of an event permit in Delft
Fees from the Municipality of Delft: €50-€500 for smaller events, thousands for large-scale ones. Extras: noise study (€300+), traffic controllers. Non-profits with ANBI status can apply for exemption.
Rights and obligations as a Delft organizer
Rights:
Obligations:
Violations: fines up to €20,500 or shutdown.
Real cases from Delft
Case 1: Soccer tournament on Brasserskade: permit for field and stalls, limited to 22:00.
Case 2: Neighborhood party in Voorhof without permit: €1,400 fine. Tip: always check!
Case 3: Large event: 50 conditions including first aid and traffic plan. Costs: €2,500 fees + €5,000 extras.
Frequently asked questions about Delft
Permit for wedding on the Market?
Not for small groups (<20), but yes for music/catering. Check Delft APV.
Delayed decision from Municipality of Delft?
Claim penalty fee (Awb art. 4:18) after 8 weeks.
Revocation by mayor?
Yes, in case of danger (Municipalities Act art. 174), with hearing.
Fireworks on New Year's Eve in Delft?
Via APV; often for professionals.