Sailing on Zoetermeer waters
On April 12, 2019, the new sailing policy for the Zoetermeer waters came into effect. The Zoetermeer waters are the Zoetermeerseplas , the Broekwegwetering and the Noordhovense lake.
Until April 12, 2019, it was not allowed to sail on the Zoetermeerseplas . Only permit holders were allowed to sail there. That sailing ban has been lifted. Instead, the following sailing policy applies.
Sailing on the Zoetermeer waters is only permitted if:
- an electric motor is used on the vessel
- the speed limit is not more than 6 kilometers per hour
An important reason for the new navigation policy is that the nuisance and environmental impact of electrically powered engines are significantly less than fuel-powered engines. The latter engines cause noise pollution, stench and emissions. The municipal government wants to focus strongly on the energy transition: a transition from the use of fossil fuels to the use of electricity. A ban on the use of petrol engines on vessels contributes to this energy transition.
An exception applies to the current boating permit holders with regard to the use of electric motors. The exception means that they may use petrol engines until 12 April 2024. From 12 April 2024, they must also use an electric motor. All boating permit holders have personally received a letter.
The Enforcement Team, the police, the fire brigade and the Zoetermeer rescue brigade are always allowed to use petrol engines and sail faster than 6 kilometres per hour.
Do you believe that you need to use a petrol engine and/or sail faster than 6 kilometres per hour? Then you can apply for an exemption.
Do you have any questions?
