Frequently Asked Questions about the Disabled Parking Permit

What will change in 2026 regarding the disabled parking permit policy?

Up to now, visitors with a disabled parking permit could bring one companion and a vehicle into the Park free of charge. This will change as of 1 January 2026. From that date onwards, the companion will pay the regular admission fee, and the normal rate will apply for bringing a vehicle into the Park.

Why is this policy being adjusted?

We understand that this is disappointing news for visitors with a disabled parking permit, and we have made this decision with a heavy heart.
There are two main reasons for this change. Firstly, the current policy creates inequality, as not all people with disabilities possess a disabled parking permit. Secondly, we want to protect our staff and gatekeepers by relieving them of the responsibility of deciding who is or is not entitled to free entry for companions and vehicles.

How does the current policy lead to possible inequality?

We want to treat everyone equally. The disabled parking permit is only available to people with a long-term mobility impairment or another severe disability. A large group of people in the Netherlands with a less severe or invisible disability falls outside this policy — for example, people with a mental or cognitive disability.

Why does the current policy place an extra burden on your staff?

There is an increasing number of visitors without a disabled parking permit who claim free entry for a companion and a vehicle. We do not want to burden our staff with judging whether someone is “disabled enough” to qualify for the policy. This has led to uncomfortable and even unpleasant discussions and cases of intimidation at the entrances, as well as complaints and formal procedures.

Does this mean you no longer care about visitors with disabilities?

On the contrary. We find it very important that the Park is accessible to everyone and that all people with disabilities — whatever their situation — can enjoy the nature and culture of the Park.
For example, visitors with a physical or visual impairment can use a free electric wheelchair bike or tandem bicycle. Several walking routes are wheelchair-accessible, and in the centre of the Park you will find the Belevingsroute (“Experience Trail”), a route developed by the Dutch Rehabilitation Fund and the Fund for People with Intellectual Disabilities, specially designed for visitors with intellectual, physical, and/or visual impairments.
The Millelamel Wildlife Observation Point is wheelchair-accessible, as are the exhibition in the Museonder and the regular guided tour in Jachthuis Sint Hubertus.

Why don’t you simply make access free for everyone? Wouldn’t that solve the problem?

The Hoge Veluwe National Park is a private organisation that operates largely without government subsidies. The income needed to manage and preserve the Park comes mainly from paying visitors.