What permits do you need to organize a corporate party?

To organize a company party, you need several permits, depending on the location, size and activities. The APV ( General Municipal Bye-Law) permit is almost always required, plus possibly a catering permit and noise permit. It is important to submit these applications well in advance, as the processing time can vary from 2 to 8 weeks per permit.

What basic permits are always required for a corporate party?

For every company party, you need at least an APV permit from the municipality where you are organizing the event. This permit regulates public order and safety during your company party. In addition, a catering permit may be required if you serve alcohol or provide catering.

The APV permit is your basic permit that you always need, ungerecht whether your corporate party is small or large. This permit looks at aspectos such as safety, fire prevention and impact on the surrounding area. If you rent a venue that already has the proper permits, you can sometimes use their existing permits.

A catering license is required as soon as you serve alcoholic beverages. This also applies to company parties where you temporarily serve alcohol. Some event venues already have a catering license, so you as an organizer do not have to make a separate application for this.

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When do you need a noise permit for your corporate party?

A noise permit is required when you have live music, a DJ playing, or when the noise level exceeds 70 decibels. Times also play a role: stricter rules apply after 10 p.m. on weekdays and after midnight on weekends.

Most municipalities have specific decibel limits for events. Daytime noise is usually allowed to be between 70-85 decibels, but in the evening it is often reduced to 60-70 decibels. These rules vary by municipality, so always check local regulations.

Please note that even background music during your company party can fall under the noise permit if it is too loud. If in doubt, it’s best to contact the municipality to ask if your specific situation requires a noise permit.

What is the difference between an event permit and a hospitality license?

An event permit (APV permit) regulates the organization of your corporate party as a whole, while a hospitality permit deals specifically with serving drinks and food. You may need both permits at the same time for the same event.

The event permit looks at aspects such as safety, traffic, noise and impact on the surrounding area. This permit is always required regardless of what you serve. The hospitality permit, on the other hand, is only required if you are serving alcohol during your corporate party.

In practice, this means that for a standard company party with drinks, you often need both permits. If you only serve non-alcoholic beverages and appetizers, usually only the event permit will suffice.

How long in advance should you apply for permits?

Schedule your permit applications at least 6-8 weeks in advance. The turnaround time for an APV permit is usually 4-6 weeks, but this can increase to 8 weeks during busy periods such as summer and year-end.

Different permits have different processing times. A hospitality permit can take 2-4 weeks, while a noise permit is often handled more quickly in 1-3 weeks. It is smart to apply for all permits at the same time to avoid delays.

Tip: Start your permit applications as soon as you have the date and location of your company party fixed. This way you avoid stress and have enough time to make any adjustments if the municipality asks for them. Some municipalities also offer an expedited process at an additional cost. For more information on this process, check out our FAQ.

What happens if you host a company party without a permit?

Organizing without the proper permits can result in fines of €500 to €25,000 and the shutting down of your event. The municipality can end your corporate party immediately, which of course is super annoying for your guests and your company.

Fines vary depending on the offense and the size of your event. For a minor violation, you might get a warning, but for larger events without a permit, the fines can be substantial. You may also be held liable for any damage or nuisance.

In addition to financial consequences, organizing without a permit can also have legal ramifications. You may face problems with your insurance if something goes wrong during the event. Therefore, it is always better to take the time to get the proper permits.

How do you apply for an event permit from the municipality?

Start by filling out the application form on your municipality’s website. You will need documents such as a map of the location, script of the event, and sometimes a traffic plan. Most municipalities work digitally these days.

The application process usually consists of these steps: download the appropriate form, fill out all requested information, add the necessary attachments, and submit everything through the municipal website or by mail. Remember to pay the fees (charges) or your application will not be processed.

Important documents you usually need include: a site situation drawing, event timetable, catering and sound information, and contact information for those involved. Some municipalities also ask for a risk analysis or safety plan, especially for larger events.

How Dutch Standard Events helps with permits for corporate parties

Arranging permits for your corporate party doesn’t have to be complicated if you get there on time. Dutch Standard Events takes the complete permit process off your hands, so you can focus on the fun aspects of your corporate party. Our experienced specialists ensure that all necessary permits are applied for and approved in a timely manner.

We offer full support for:

• Apply for APV permit and provide all necessary documentation
• Regulating hospitality licenses for alcohol and catering
• Noise permit applications including decibel measurements
• Liaise with municipalities and coordinate follow-up steps
• Create backup plans for any permitting issues

With our professional services, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and delays. Contact us today for a free consultation on permits for your corporate party!