Summary: To install a moving lift or container in Amsterdam, you must submit an object notification or obtain an object permit. A free notification is sufficient for small objects that will remain in place for no more than a week, while a paid permit is required for larger projects. Because processing times and costs can vary significantly, it’s important to always check the City of Amsterdam’s website for the most up-to-date information on processing times and fees. Be sure to apply for everything well in advance to avoid fines and delays during your move or renovation.

Do you need a moving elevator to be parked on the sidewalk or a debris container that will temporarily occupy a parking space during your move or renovation? If so, you’ll need to “reserve space,” so to speak, with the city. But how do you go about it? It all comes down to two key concepts: the Object Notification and the Object Permit. But what’s the difference? And what exactly do you need to arrange for your move to Amsterdam? We’ll explain.

What does a property report in Amsterdam entail?

An Object Notification is a free notification that you must submit to the City of Amsterdam at least 48 hours before placing an object on the sidewalk or in one or two parking spaces. You may submit an Object Notification for the placement of the following objects:

  • Moving elevator without a license plate
  • Construction Fence
  • Building Materials
  • Generator
  • Mobile Scaffold
  • Portable toilet
  • Debris or trash container (cover it every day after use)
  • Aerial work platform without a license plate

What are the requirements for filing a property report in Amsterdam?

  • Notify us at least 48 hours before installation
  • Up to 3 items
  • Park on the sidewalk or in up to 2 parking spaces.
  • Leave it for up to 1 week
  • The maximum dimensions are 2.40 meters wide x 4.50 meters long x 2.75 meters high (mobile scaffolding, aerial work platforms, and moving lifts may be taller)
  • Place the object on the sidewalk or in a public parking space
  • A debris container on the sidewalk must be placed on road plates
  • You are not allowed to leave containers on shopping streets on weekends and holidays
  • Memorials and advertisements must remain accessible and visible
  • You may submit a maximum of three reports per 12-month period per work location
  • You may not place or leave any objects on King’s Day or December 31

What does a building permit in Amsterdam entail?

An Object Permit in Amsterdam is a permit issued by the City of Amsterdam that you need to temporarily place an object on or along a public road, such as a container, scaffolding, moving lift, or (construction) materials. If the object does not meet the requirements of the Object Notification, you must apply for an Object Permit.

What are the requirements for applying for a Building Permit?

  • Apply for the building permit at least 6 business days in advance
  • You must always create and upload a site plan for your application.
  • There is a weight limit for objects and vehicles on docks and bridges.

Where should you not place an object?

  • In a disabled parking space
  • At a loading and unloading area
  • In a parking space with an electric charging station
  • In front of the entrance door or emergency exit of a building
  • At the base of a tree
  • At a guide line for the blind
  • Within sight of an advertising column (at least 2 meters away from the advertising column, mupi, or bus shelter)

How does the process of filing a property report or applying for a property permit work?

Arranging an object notification or object permit—for example, for a moving elevator or a truck—is initially your responsibility as the customer, since you are responsible for ensuring a clear and safe space in front of the building. To make things easier for you, our account manager will work closely with you during a (moving) site visit to determine the best location for these “objects,” so you can assess whether a simple notification is sufficient or if a more comprehensive permit is required.

If there is no parking space available or if the road needs to be (partially) closed off, such a permit is always required to ensure that the move goes smoothly. You have the option to arrange this yourself with the municipality or to leave it entirely up to us; in that case, we’ll pass on the municipal fees to you on a one-to-one basis, plus an administrative fee for handling the paperwork. Since the municipality’s processing time can vary from about 3 weeks to as long as 3 months, it’s very important to get this started in a timely manner so that we can get to work on your moving day in Amsterdam without any worries and fully prepared.

How much does a building permit cost in Amsterdam?

The fees for applying for a building permit in Amsterdam vary depending on the time of year. For an up-to-date overview of the fees, we recommend that you visit the City of Amsterdam’s website. Please note: you’ll have to pay even if your permit application is denied.

Make Your Move in Amsterdam Easy

Need help with your move in or to Amsterdam? We’re happy to assist you. Start arranging your permits today and make your move in Amsterdam a lot easier.