Algemene plaatselijke verordening (APV) Bodegraven-Reeuwijk – Local Regulatory Framework
The Algemene plaatselijke verordening gemeente Bodegraven-Reeuwijk, commonly referred to as the APV, is the primary municipal ordinance governing public order, safety, health, and environmental standards within the municipality of Bodegraven-Reeuwijk, Netherlands. This consolidated version is valid from April 23, 2026. It is established by the municipal council under the authority granted by Article 149 of the Gemeentewet (Municipalities Act) and serves as the legal basis for local permits, prohibitions, and enforcement actions.
The document is structured into six main chapters covering diverse regulatory domains. These include general provisions for permits and exemptions, public order and safety (including events and catering establishments), regulations for the sex industry and prostitution, environmental protection (noise and lighting), and specific rules for the use of public spaces, including parking and traffic. It defines key terminology such as bebouwde kom (built-up area), openbare plaats (public place), and bevoegd gezag (competent authority), ensuring a standardized legal framework for residents and professionals operating within the municipality.
This regulatory framework provides specific technical thresholds and procedural timelines for permit applications and notifications. It integrates requirements from broader national legislation, such as the Omgevingswet (Environment Act) and the Alcoholwet (Alcohol Act), to maintain a consistent local compliance environment.
General Permit Procedures and Timelines
Chapter 1 establishes the administrative rules for applying for and managing municipal permits and exemptions. Under Article 1:2, the competent authority must decide on an application within eight weeks, with a possible extension of another eight weeks. Key conditions for permits include:
- Personal character: Permits are generally personal and non-transferable unless specified otherwise (Art. 1:5).
- Duration: Permits are valid for an indefinite period unless the nature of the activity or a limit on the number of available permits dictates a fixed term (Art. 1:7).
- Grounds for refusal: Applications may be denied based on public order, public safety, public health, or environmental protection (Art. 1:8).
- Revocation: Authorities may withdraw permits if incorrect data was provided, circumstances have changed, or regulations are breached (Art. 1:6).
Events and Public Order
Chapter 2 regulates assemblies and events. A distinction is made between large events requiring a permit and small events that only require notification.
- Small Events (Art. 2:24): Defined as one-day events with a maximum of 250 attendees at any peak moment, occurring within specific time slots (e.g., 07:00–23:00 Mon-Thu, 07:00–24:00 Fri-Sat). Notification must be filed 10 workdays in advance.
- Demonstrations (Art. 2:3): Written notice must be provided to the Mayor at least 48 hours before the start of a public manifestation.
- Digital Public Order (Art. 2:2): It is prohibited to use digital means to incite physical disturbances or serious fear for safety within the municipality.
- Ice Safety (Art. 2:23): It is forbidden to damage, pollute, or obstruct public ice surfaces or move safety beacons.
Catering and Public Establishments
Regulations for openbare inrichtingen (hotels, restaurants, cafes, etc.) include strict licensing and operational hours. Closing times are differentiated by location and category.
- Standard Closing Times (Art. 2:29): Establishments in the center of Bodegraven must generally close between 01:00 and 06:00 (Mon-Thu), with extended hours until 02:00 on Friday and 04:00 on weekends.
- Terraces: Outdoor seating must close by 24:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, and by 23:00 on other days.
- Exploitation Permit (Art. 2:28): Operating a public establishment requires a permit from the Mayor, which may be refused if the living environment is negatively affected or the operator fails integrity requirements.
Environment, Noise, and Nuisance
Chapter 4 defines technical standards for noise levels and environmental hygiene. It applies to establishments categorized under the Activiteitenbesluit milieubeheer.
- Incidental Festivities (Art. 4:3): Establishments may hold up to eight incidental festivities per year where standard noise limits are waived, provided notification is given 10 workdays in advance.
- Noise Threshold (Art. 4:2): During designated collective festivities, the equivalent noise level (LAeq) caused by an establishment must not exceed 55 dB(A) at the facade of sensitive buildings.
- Unamplified Music (Art. 4:5): Rehearsals by music groups are permitted for up to four hours per week, exempt from standard noise limits during daytime and evening periods.
- Carbid Shooting (Art. 2:73A): Permitted only on December 31 between 10:00 and 17:00, restricted to areas outside the built-up area and excluding the Natura 2000 zone Broekvelden, Vettenbroek & Polder Stein.
Traffic, Parking, and Public Spaces
Chapter 5 addresses specific vehicle types and the use of the road for purposes other than transit.
- Recreational Vehicles (Art. 5:6): Campers, caravans, and trailers may not be parked on public roads for more than three consecutive days.
- Large Vehicles (Art. 5:8): Vehicles longer than six meters or higher than 2.4 meters are prohibited from parking in areas where they damage the aesthetic appearance of the municipality.
- Defective Vehicles (Art. 5:4): Parking a vehicle that cannot be driven due to defects is prohibited for more than three consecutive days.
- Selling from the Road (Art. 5:15): It is prohibited to engage in mobile trade (venten) if it endangers public safety or health, with specific time bans on Sundays and holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for a decision on an APV permit in Bodegraven-Reeuwijk?
According to Article 1:2, the authority must decide within eight weeks of receipt, though they may postpone the decision for up to eight additional weeks.
When can I legally shoot carbid in the municipality?
Per Article 2:73A, carbid shooting is only allowed on December 31 between 10:00 and 17:00, and it must occur outside of built-up areas and away from protected Natura 2000 sites.
How long can a caravan or trailer be parked on a public street?
Under Article 5:6, recreational vehicles and trailers may not be placed or held on a public road for more than three consecutive days.
What are the rules for small events with fewer than 250 people?
Small events do not require a permit but must be reported to the Mayor at least 10 workdays in advance. They must meet specific criteria regarding music levels, time slots, and safety as defined in Article 2:24.
Is drinking alcohol prohibited in public places?
Article 2:48 prohibits consuming alcohol or carrying open containers in areas designated by the college, specifically for persons aged 18 and over.
Are there limits on the number of sex industry permits?
Yes, Article 3:5 states that a maximum of two permits may be issued for escort businesses within the municipality.
What is the noise limit for festivities at catering establishments?
Article 4:2 and 4:3 specify that the equivalent noise level (LAeq) caused by the establishment must not exceed 55 dB(A) at the facade of sensitive buildings until 01:00.
Do I need a permit for a mobile stand or kiosk?
Yes, Article 5:18 requires a permit to occupy a fixed stand on a public place, which may be refused based on urban planning or safety grounds.
