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Digital Objection Procedures under the Awb in Leiden

Digital objections and hearings permitted under Awb (art. 3:14a) in Leiden. DigiD mandatory, option for physical attendance at city hall, with focus on equality and hearing obligation.

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Digital Objection Procedures under the Awb in Leiden

The Awb encourages the digitalisation of objection procedures via Article 3:14a and the Dutch Digital Decision-Making Act. In Leiden, the municipality's objection committees, such as the Leiden Objections Committee, have adapted by conducting online hearings for cases involving local permits and taxes.

Benefits and Requirements in Leiden

  • Accessibility: Submission via the Messages Box of Mijn Leiden or by e-mail to the municipality.
  • Security: Authentication mandatory with DigiD or eHerkenning for businesses.
  • Equality: Option for a physical hearing in Leiden City Hall at Bargelaan remains available.

Practical Challenges in Leiden

Video hearings via platforms such as Webex save time for Leiden residents and civil servants, but require stable internet connections, especially in older neighbourhoods such as Pieterswijk. The judiciary, including the District Court of The Hague which covers Leiden, rules that digital procedures are equivalent provided that the hearing obligation under Article 7:2 Awb is respected. The Municipality of Leiden aims for full digitalisation by 2025, in line with the local administrative programme 'Leiden Digitaal'.

This modernises administrative law in Leiden, increases efficiency and makes it easier for residents to object to decisions regarding housing construction or parking permits.