Oprit

Oprit is a Dutch term referring to the private area that provides access from a public road to a building and is used for vehicle entry and parking. It is most commonly found in residential settings and can lead directly to a house, a garage, or a courtyard. In the Dutch-speaking regions of the Netherlands and Belgium, the same term is used, though regional preferences for synonyms may vary.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from op (onto) and rit (drive or ride). It is sometimes contrasted with inrit, which can also denote a driveway or entrance; usage varies by region and context. The term is generally applied to a paved or surfaced path that accommodates vehicle movement rather than to a public street.

Design and features: An op rit may be surfaced with asphalt, concrete, paving stones, or gravel. It is typically bordered by landscaping, fences, or walls and may be bounded by the property line. In many homes the op rit also functions as a parking area and may include a gate, carport, or other access features.

Regulation and maintenance: The op rit is typically part of private property, and the owner is responsible for its upkeep, drainage, and snow removal. Local regulations may require permits for construction or expansion, and some designs must comply with setback, visibility, and access rules. In some cases, driveways are shared between properties under an easement or formal agreement.