In the Netherlands, and therefore also in Leiden, the possession of weapons is strictly regulated under the Weapons and Ammunition Act. This act determines which weapons are prohibited and under what conditions legal weapon possession is possible.
Types of Weapons and Categories
The legislation divides weapons into four categories:
- Category I - Prohibited weapons: such as stilettos, butterfly knives, brass knuckles, and choke sticks.
- Category II - Prohibited firearms: such as automatic weapons, explosives, and hand grenades.
- Category III - Weapons requiring a permit: for example, handguns and hunting rifles.
- Category IV - Freely available weapons: such as alarm pistols, swords, and crossbows.
Penalties for Violations
- For Category I weapons: up to 4 years' imprisonment.
- For Category II weapons: a maximum penalty of 8 years.
- For Category III weapons without a permit: likewise up to 4 years' imprisonment.
- Additional weapons or ammunition lead to harsher penalties.
Replicas and Toy Weapons
Airsoft guns and fake pistols fall under the act if they are not clearly recognizable as fake. Carrying them in public spaces in Leiden is punishable, even if it is a replica.
Rules Regarding Knives
Possession of a regular pocket knife or kitchen knife is permitted, but carrying it in public without a valid reason is not allowed. Prohibited knives such as stilettos and butterfly knives may not be possessed at all.
Applying for a Weapon Permit
For hunters and sport shooters in Leiden, a permit is possible. Strict conditions apply:
- Minimum one year membership in a recognized shooting association.
- No criminal record.
- A reliability check by the police.
- Safe storage in an approved weapon safe.
Contact and Legal Assistance in Leiden
For questions about weapon possession or legal advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles cases relating to violations of the Weapons and Ammunition Act.
Frequently Asked Questions about Weapon Possession
Am I allowed to carry a pocket knife in Leiden?
Possession of a pocket knife is permitted, but carrying it in public without a valid reason (such as work) is prohibited. The police may ask for an explanation and seize the knife if in doubt. Prohibited knives such as butterfly knives are completely excluded, even at home.
How do I apply for a weapon permit in Leiden?
You must be a member of a recognized shooting or hunting association for at least one year. Then you submit an application to the police, including a Certificate of Conduct (VOG), reliability investigation, and proof of a suitable weapon safe. This process can take several months.
Are airsoft weapons legal in the Netherlands?
Only if they are clearly recognizable as fake, for example by an orange marking. If they look like real weapons, they fall under the act and possession or carrying in public is punishable.
What are the consequences of illegal weapon possession?
The penalties vary by category: Category I (such as stilettos) up to 4 years, Category II (such as automatic weapons) up to 8 years, and Category III without a permit also up to 4 years. Multiple weapons or ammunition aggravate the penalty.
Can I possess a crossbow or sword?
Yes, these fall under Category IV and are freely available. However, carrying them in public can cause problems if the police suspect you are using them as a weapon. For historical events, you can often obtain permission from the local authorities in Leiden.