uitrits

An uitrit (plural uitritten) is a private access point from a building or property onto a public road, used by vehicles to enter or exit. In Dutch-speaking contexts the term commonly refers to a driveway or entrance that connects private property to the public street. It is distinct from an entrance that is solely for pedestrians or from a public road feature such as a sidewalk or cycle path.

Purpose and use

Uitritten are found at homes, farms, commercial sites, and other properties. They provide direct vehicle access for residents, customers, deliveries, and services. The design and size of an uitrit depend on factors such as the scale of traffic, the size of the property, and the local road network. In practice, an uitrit must accommodate turning movements and drainage without forcing vehicles to reverse onto the public road.

Design and safety considerations

Key design elements include sight lines (visibility for vehicles entering or leaving), width and turning radius, drainage, and the materials used for paving. Vegetation, fencing, and other obstructions should be controlled to maintain clear visibility. In many jurisdictions, the placement of an uitrit near intersections, crosswalks, or bicycle lanes is subject to stricter requirements to reduce conflicts with other road users.

Regulatory framework and maintenance

Regulations governing uitritten vary by country and locality. Many areas require compliance with road safety standards, setback distances, or permits for construction or modification, and approval may be needed from the municipality or road authority. Ongoing maintenance—such as keeping the surface in good repair and ensuring unobstructed sight lines—typically falls to the property owner, though responsibilities can differ by local rules. Some cases include cost-sharing or coordination with public authorities for changes that affect the public road.

See also: driveway, access management, private access, curb cut.