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Water Board Tax - Netherlands 2025
Water Board Tax (Waterschapsbelasting) is collected by regional water authorities to fund flood protection, water management, and water treatment services across the Netherlands.
Key Points
- Collected by 21 regional water boards (waterschappen) across the Netherlands
- Three main components: system charge, treatment charge, and pollution levy
- System charge based on property WOZ value and fixed resident charge
- Treatment charge differs for single vs multi-person households
- Pollution levy based on actual wastewater discharge
- Rates increased by €33-47 annually in 2025
- Essential for flood protection and clean water services
- Payment typically in quarterly installments
Regional Rates
Calculation Example
Example: Family Home in Waternet Region
Total water board tax: €300 (base) + €175 (WOZ-based) + €150 (treatment) + €85 (resident) = €710 annually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I pay different amounts than my neighbor?
Water board tax depends on your property's WOZ value, household size, and actual water consumption. Larger properties and multi-person households typically pay more.
What services does this tax fund?
Water board tax funds flood protection (dikes, pumps), water quality management, wastewater treatment plants, and maintaining waterways and canals.
Can I get discounts on water board tax?
Some water boards offer payment arrangements for financial hardship, but there are generally no standard discounts. However, accurate water meter readings can optimize your pollution levy.
How is the treatment charge calculated?
Treatment charges are based on pollution units (ve): 1 unit for single-person households, 3 units for multi-person households (even just 2 people), reflecting average wastewater production.