Fijnregeling

Fijnregeling is a Dutch term that literally means "fine regulation" and is used to describe a policy framework governing the imposition and handling of fines and penalties by public authorities. In practice, a fijnregeling outlines when penalties are imposed, how amounts are calculated, and the procedures for payment, appeal, and possible relief.

It typically includes provisions for payment in installments, reductions, waivers, or remission under specific conditions, such as financial hardship, admitted non-compliance followed by corrective steps, or timely payment after notification. The aim is to balance enforcement with fairness and administrative practicality.

Different Dutch institutions apply their own fijnregelingen. Municipal governments publish fine schedules for traffic and local violations, while national agencies, such as the Belastingdienst (Tax Administration) or regulatory bodies, maintain schemes addressing penalties for late filings, non-compliance, or violations of sector rules. The exact rules and thresholds vary by jurisdiction and by agency, so there is no single national fijnregeling.

The term reflects policy practice rather than a single statutory term; there is no universal national fijnregeling. Debates about fijnregelingen often focus on proportionality, access to relief, and the administrative burden of enforcement.

See also: boete, betalingsregeling, sanctieregeling.