Dutch Christmas tree shoppers face fines if tree isn’t secured properly
Saturday is expected to be the busiest Christmas tree shopping day in the Netherlands, raising a common question: how should you transport a Christmas tree in your car, and is it legal to drive with the tailgate open?
A Christmas tree that is not properly secured can become a deadly projectile in traffic, as demonstrated in crash tests by the German ADAC (ANWB). Even a small tree can generate a force of up to 750 kilograms due to gravity, posing a serious threat to vehicles ahead.
Fines for improperly secured trees range from 125 to 390 euros, depending on the seriousness of the violation and traffic conditions. If the tree extends more than one meter behind the car, the fine is 190 euros. If it extends more than 1.75 meters, the fine rises to 280 euros. Covering the license plate with the tree carries a fine of 180 euros.
If the tree is too long or the car too small, the safest option is to transport it on a trailer. It is also possible to secure the tree to a roof rack. In all cases, the trunk should face forward to prevent the wind from damaging the branches while driving. Use ratchet straps to hold the tree in place—one around the trunk and another around the branches. Safety authorities advise against using a “spider,” an elastic strap with hooks at the ends, AD reported.
It is legal to transport a tree with the tailgate open, but there are restrictions. A tree—or any indivisible object—may extend up to 20 centimeters beyond the side of the vehicle, such as through a side window. From the rear, the object may extend up to one meter, even with a partially open tailgate.
Drivers must ensure that taillights and turn signals remain fully visible and that the tailgate cannot swing open while the vehicle is moving.
Beyond the legal rules, driving with a partially open tailgate can be hazardous to health. Exhaust fumes can be drawn into hatchbacks, SUVs, and station wagons. If you must drive this way, open the side windows partially to reduce the risk. Electric vehicles, of course, are not affected by this problem.
