Difference between an environmental permit and an environmental (omgevings) permit
The environmental permit used to be a separate permit that companies needed for activities with a potential environmental impact, such as air, water, or soil pollution, or noise disturbance. Since 2010, this permit has been included in the broader environmental (omgevings) permit. In this article, we explain the differences and current regulations.
What is an environmental permit?
Definition:
An environmental permit was required for companies whose activities could impact the environment.
This included aspects such as:
- Air, water, and soil pollution
- Noise disturbance
Validity:
Environmental permits used to be valid for 20 years.
What is an environmental (omgevings) permit?
Definition:
The environmental (omgevings) permit is an integrated permit that, since 2010, covers environmental issues as well as other aspects, including:
- Construction
- Nature management
- Spatial planning
Validity:
Unlike the environmental permit, the environmental (omgevings) permit has unlimited validity.
What has changed?
Integration of permits:
Previously, companies had to apply for separate permits for environmental and other activities.
Since 2010, the environmental permit has been integrated into the environmental (omgevings) permit.
Unlimited validity:
Where environmental permits had a limited validity of 20 years, the environmental (omgevings) permit is now valid indefinitely.