What is the Environment and Planning Act?
From 1 January 2024, there will be a single law governing everything related to the space in which we live and work: the Environment and Planning Act. This new law applies to all residents and businesses in the Netherlands.
We create our environment together
You will have to deal with the Environment and Planning Act if you want to change anything in the living environment. It regulates much of what you see, smell, and hear outside (environment, soil, water, roads, listed buildings, nature, noise, and new construction).
Information about what the Environment and Planning Act means and regulates is available to residents and businesses.
Are you a resident?
You can visit the Environment and Planning Portal for information about permit applications and for local information about your area. For example, about water quality or noise standards. You can apply for a permit or submit a report to the Environment and Planning Portal. It is no longer possible to apply for a permit directly from the water authority.
Are you an entrepreneur?
Entrepreneurs/companies can consult the page Explanation for the business community on iplo.nl (Dutch only). This page provides information about the Environment and Planning Act and the DSO (Environment and Planning Act Digital System). The page refers to information on both iplo.nl and other websites.
More information
Animation Dutch Environment and Planning Act
This animation provides a brief explanation of the Environment and Planning Act. You will have to deal with the Environment and Planning Act if you want to make any changes to your living environment after 1 January 2024.
Animation Environment and Planning Act (getting started with 'Omgevingswet'nl')
Animation Environment and Planning Portal
This animation explains the digital Environment and Planning Portal. The new Environment and Planning Portal replaces the existing service desks. From 1 January 2024, you will be able to submit applications on the new Environment and Planning Portal.
Animation Environment and Planning Portal (getting started with 'Omgevingswet'nl')