waterschapsverkiezingen

Waterschapsverordening is a regulation issued by a Dutch water board (waterschap) to govern specific matters within the board’s jurisdiction. Water boards are regional authorities responsible for flood protection, maintenance of dikes and waterways, drainage of land, and safeguarding water quality and ecological standards. A waterschapsverordening provides binding rules on topics such as land use near waterways, permits for discharges or construction affecting the water system, and the collection of water board charges (waterschapsheffingen).

Verordeningen are based on national law and must be compatible with higher legal frameworks, including the Water Act and other environmental and spatial planning laws. They are prepared by the waterschap’s executive and governing body, often after public consultation, and are adopted formally. After adoption, verordeningen are published and become enforceable within the entire waterschap district. Violations can carry administrative penalties and may be challenged in court if unlawfully adopted.

Verordeningen are amended or repealed through the same process. They contribute to the safe, clean, and affordable management of water, balancing flood protection, water quality, nature, and public interests. Examples include rules for dredging, permits for new buildings near dikes, discharge standards for wastewater, and tariff schedules used to fund water-board activities.