What is a Buurtalert?
A Buurtalert is an automatic notification from PlotSense that keeps you informed about zoning plan changes in your immediate area. Whenever your municipality adopts a new omgevingsplan or modifies an existing one — for example by changing your plot's zoning designation or opening a new construction zone — you receive an alert with the details.
Why is a zoning plan change relevant to your plot?
Since the introduction of the Omgevingswet in 2024, your municipality's zoning plan determines what you may build, demolish, and modify on your plot. A change in this plan can mean:
- Your building options change — what was permit-free yesterday may require a permit tomorrow.
- Your zoning designation shifts — for example from 'residential' to 'residential with commercial activity' or vice versa.
- New construction nearby — a new project next to your plot can affect your view, privacy, or even your foundation risk.
- Leasehold conditions change — in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, ground rent may be revised upon plan changes.
How does PlotSense Buurtalert work?
PlotSense continuously monitors official publications from all 342 Dutch municipalities and the Kadaster registers. When a change is published that affects your registered address or postal code area, you receive an email containing:
- The nature of the change (zoning, building rules, leasehold, etc.)
- Publication date and expected effective date
- Whether the change has consequences for your specific plot
- Whether you can file an objection and within what deadline
When is a Buurtalert useful?
- When buying a home — check for pending or announced plan changes that could influence your decision.
- When planning renovations — know immediately if building rules change before applying for a permit.
- During permit procedures — track whether an application is still feasible under the then-current rules.
- For objections and participation — you usually have six weeks to object; without an alert, you may miss that window.
How much does Buurtalert cost?
PlotSense Buurtalert costs €29 per year per plot. You then receive twelve months of all relevant notifications for your registered address, including an annual overview of all changes in your neighbourhood.