New Safety Rules Challenge Carnival Floats in the Netherlands

The era when any old farmer’s cart could be transformed into a carnival float is over. As of January 1, 2024, new national safety regulations require carnival floats to have vehicle inspections and insurance, as well as a yellow license plate.

Vincent Jacobs from the brass band De Mootwörm in Venlo expressed concerns to L1 News, stating that while safety is important, the regulations are excessive. The band has opted not to use their old float, which they’ve stripped for scrap due to the prohibitive costs of compliance, estimated at 6,000 euros.

Jacobs anticipates that this year’s carnival in Venlo will be less impressive due to these stringent rules. Similar issues arose last year regarding a rule that no more than twenty people can be on a float simultaneously.

In response, some groups have had to find alternatives, such as renting buses. Insurance advisor Frank Jacobs noted that these rules were established in 2021, giving associations time to adapt.

He dismissed claims about high insurance costs and highlighted collective options for affordability. Although accidents involving floats are rare, past incidents underscore the importance of safety.

Source: NOS

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