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The Dutch government supports allowing year-round residents in holiday parks as a partial solution to the country’s severe housing shortage. However, most municipalities disagree. An investigation by NOS and regional broadcasters found that most councils are disregarding the housing minister’s request to relax enforcement and continue to uphold rules against permanent residence.
What the survey found
Regional broadcasters surveyed all 342 Dutch municipalities about their policies on permanent residence in holiday parks, including 177 with relevant parks or substantive responses. Of the 112 municipalities previously enforcing the rules, 97 have not changed their approach. In total, 116 of the 177 councils oppose permanent residency in recreational homes.
The policy tug-of-war
The issue has become a standoff between the national government and local councils. The previous government proposed legalising residence in holiday homes, which have less stringent building requirements, for ten years. After concerns about feasibility, the current government adopted a tolerance policy. In a letter to parliament in July, Housing Minister Elanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan asked councils to show restraint in enforcement and to leave permanent residents undisturbed unless there are “compelling reasons” to intervene, such as safety risks or criminal activity.
The government aims to prevent holiday home residents from suddenly becoming homeless. New national agreements are expected by year-end.
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Why councils are resisting
Many municipalities remain unconvinced, citing practical concerns. They argue that local authorities, not the ministry, are best positioned to make these decisions. “As a municipality, we know our own parks and the people who live there, so we are best placed to judge what constitutes a good solution,” said alderman Jacob Boonstra of Westerveld, Drenthe, which has 62 holiday parks, mostly near nature reserves.
Tourism is a key reason for resistance. Councils note that holiday parks attract visitors who support local businesses and fund community amenities, and they wish to preserve these parks for recreation. Some are concerned about mixing permanent residents and tourists, with Zeewolde warning that housing both groups together “does not enhance the quality of the recreational and tourism experience, and it can lead to friction.” Councils such as Venlo also fear the minister’s approach may create false expectations about permanent residence.
The minister’s response
In response, Boekholt-O’Sullivan reiterated that this is a local decision. She stated that municipalities must balance recreation options with “supporting residents in a distressing situation,” and she trusts they consider this carefully. She also clarified that the agreements are “not to use holiday parks for permanent habitation as a solution to the housing shortage.” With councils holding firm, the issue is likely to remain unresolved.