Use public space
To organize an event, set up outdoor seating, or place building materials on streets, sidewalks, or in parks, you need a permit to use public space. The permit is applied for through the Police Authority.
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Step-by-step guide
Please note that all forms and digital applications (e-services) are currently in Swedish. Contact Citizen Service if you need help in English.
1. What is considered a public space?
A public space is an area covered by a local development plan. It is usually owned by the municipality, but private land may sometimes also be considered a public space.
2. Start early
Apply well in advance, as processing times may vary both with the police and the municipality.
3. costs
The Police Authority charges a fee for the application. The fee is not refunded if your application is rejected, and the amount varies depending on the type of permit.
You apply for the permit through the Police Authority.
The municipality may also charge fees for the use of the space and for electricity consumption if needed.
4. Processing time
The police will only start processing your application once the fee has been paid. Processing times may vary both with the police and the municipality.
5. Important to know
You are responsible for ensuring that your activity meets all requirements. Food-related businesses must have self-inspection procedures.
For some constructions, such as outdoor seating areas or food trucks, you may also need a permit from the Environment and Building Committee in addition to the police permit. If you want to serve alcohol, you need a license from the municipality’s alcohol licensing officer. All of these permits can be applied for through the municipality’s online services.
For scaffolding, you may also need to submit a traffic management plan. This is done through the municipality’s online service for excavation permits and traffic management plans.
4.1 Questions or more information
Contact the municipality before submitting your application to get preliminary advice. Call Citizen Service at +46 921 62 000 or email tekniska@boden.se.
6. Submit your application
Applications are made through the Police Authority’s website.
7. What happens next
The police send the application to the municipality’s traffic unit for review. The municipality must approve the use of the space before the police can issue the permit.
If the land is owned by the municipality, the police confirm with them first. If the land is privately owned, the landowner is consulted. The permit is always issued by the police.
8. Other things to consider
8.1 Be clear in your application!
Include a sketch showing how the space will be used, including placement and measurements of what will be installed.
8.2 More information
Do you want to access a specific document? Contact Citizen Service, and we will help you retrieve and read the full document.
contact
Technical department
E-mail: tekniska@boden.se
Phone: +46 921 620 00