APV (algemene plaatselijke verordening)

The APV is the general local bylaw, a set of rules that each Dutch municipality makes for its own area. It covers public order and safety, such as rules on demonstrations, public nuisance, alcohol and noise, and breaking these rules can lead to fines or arrests. When police say someone was arrested for violating the APV, they mean the person broke a municipal rule rather than a national criminal law.