How do you arrange a terrace in Amsterdam?
In Amsterdam the terrace forms part of the exploitatievergunning. For a new venue you apply for that permit "with terrace"; for an existing venue you amend the permit you already hold. Among other things, the gemeente assesses the dimensions, the clearance for pedestrians and emergency services, and the appearance of the terrace in relation to its surroundings.
The permit sets out exactly how large your terrace may be, where it may be placed and which opening hours apply. Note: some websites refer to a separate "terrasvergunning Amsterdam" with its own tariff — that is the amendment fee for the operating permit.
When do you need permission for a terrace?
You need a terrasvergunning as soon as you want to place chairs and tables outside for your guests — whether that is on the pavement, on a square or on your own land. Extending or altering an existing terrace also requires a new application.
Terrace rules differ from area to area and from season to season. We know the Amsterdam rules and make sure your application fits them.
Which documents do you need?
- Valid operating permit for the venue
- Terrace plan with exact dimensions
- Site drawing showing the surrounding public space
- Photos of the facade and the intended terrace location
Wij vertellen u tijdens de gratis intake precies welke stukken in uw situatie nodig zijn.
How the process works
- 1
Free intake
We assess whether the terrace you have in mind is feasible.
- 2
Preparing the drawings
We produce a correct terrace plan and site drawing.
- 3
Submitting the application
We file the application with the gemeente.
- 4
Decision
You receive the terrasvergunning, stating the permitted dimensions.
What does a terrace permit cost?
For handling your terrasvergunning we charge a fixed service fee.
On top of that, the gemeente charges its own leges (permit fees) and possibly precariobelasting (a tax on the use of public space). These costs are separate from our service fee.
What the gemeente charges on top
| What the gemeente charges for | Amount | Tariff year | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjusting a terrace on an existing operating permitExcluding a reduction of the terrace area within the already permitted outline. | €681.30 | 2026 | Gemeente Amsterdam |
| A new terrace: via the operating permit "with terrace"Amsterdam has no separate terrace permit for a new application — the terrace is part of the operating permit. The difference from "without terrace" (€ 3,010.80) is € 610.70. | €3,621.50 | 2026 | Gemeente Amsterdam |
| If you serve alcohol on the terrace: other amendment to the alcohol licence | €483.40 | 2026 | Gemeente Amsterdam |
These are the gemeente's own fees, separate from our service fee, and are payable to Gemeente Amsterdam. Leges are revised on 1 January each year. Last checked by us on 26 July 2026 — always verify the current amount with the gemeente before you budget.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I have a terrace all year round?
- In many areas a terrace season applies, with specific start and end dates. We will tell you which rules apply at your location.
- Do I need an exploitatievergunning first?
- Yes, a terrasvergunning belongs to a business that holds a valid exploitatievergunning. We can combine both processes for you.
Related permits
Let us arrange your terrace permit
A fixed price, no surprises. We handle the whole application so you can focus on your business.
Request a free intake