The Hague tightens public space rules: new bans on begging, alcohol and drugs in key areas
Residents and visitors in parts of The Hague face stricter rules as the city bans begging, alcohol, and soft drugs in public spaces until 2029. The measures aim to reduce nuisance but also include support for vulnerable groups.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Affected Areas | Laak, Binckhorst (expanded), city centre, areas near schools and playgrounds |
| Lifted Bans | Bezuidenhout (soft drugs, alcohol, begging) |
| Duration of Ban | March 20, 2026 – April 1, 2029 |
| Fines Issued (2023-2025) | 11,181 (70% in city centre) |
| Support Measures | Addiction care, youth work, mental health support |
| Exceptions | Zuiderpark, beaches, Madestein recreation area (alcohol allowed) |
The Municipality of The Hague is responsible for maintaining public order and safety within the city. These new bans reflect its role in balancing enforcement with social support to address nuisance while protecting vulnerable groups.
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Read the full translated article below
New bans on begging, alcohol and drugs in public spaces
In some parts of The Hague, begging, using soft drugs or drinking alcohol in public is now prohibited. This ban applies until April 1, 2029. The municipality has introduced these measures due to increasing public nuisance.
Ban in effect until April 1, 2029
There was already a ban on begging in place, which proved effective. As a result, a new ban has been introduced, also valid until April 1, 2029. The areas where the ban applies were determined based on where nuisance was most prevalent. Additionally, begging remains prohibited around schools, cemeteries and places of worship throughout the city. The use of soft drugs and alcohol is also banned near schools and playgrounds.
Where do the new bans apply?
- In Laak, the ban on begging now covers more streets due to increased nuisance in recent times.
- In Binckhorst, begging, using soft drugs and drinking alcohol in public are now prohibited. This is because a temporary night shelter for homeless people will be established there.
Where are the bans lifted?
The bans on soft drugs, alcohol and begging in Bezuidenhout have been lifted. In some parts of the city, drinking alcohol in public was already permitted, such as in Zuiderpark, on the beaches of The Hague and in the Madestein recreation area. Of course, enforcement officers and the police will still intervene in case of nuisance.
Fines and support
In 2023, 2024 and 2025, police and enforcement officers issued a total of 11,181 fines. Nearly seven out of ten fines were issued in the city centre. However, fines are not the only measure taken. Additional efforts are being made to make the city safer and more pleasant, including addiction care and youth work to support people with (mental health) issues.
Want to know more about the ban?
View the Overview of all areas in The Hague with a ban on soft drugs, alcohol and begging.
Read the Evaluation and new decisions regarding soft drug, alcohol and begging ban areas (RIS 324930) (External link).
Read the Annex: Evaluation of soft drug, alcohol and begging ban in The Hague 2025 (RIS 324930) (External link).