Are the neighbours allowed to place a frame with a view of our front door within 2m of the property boundary?

Questioner

Our neighbours have built a bay window. When applying for an environmental permit, we requested the drawing from the municipality. The drawing showed a brick wall in the side wall that looks out onto our front door. We didn't think this was a problem. Now they are building and to our dismay, a frame is being installed in the side wall. They are now looking out onto our front door and diagonally into the house. When we asked the municipality how this was possible, we were told that the city council wanted it this way and that this question was asked during the application and a new drawing was submitted, which we never saw or received. Now the municipality says that they can't do anything about it anymore and that we have to solve it ourselves. Relations with the neighbours are not good; they have not spoken to each other for years. How can we make the frame disappear into the side wall?

Lawyer

The municipality cannot do anything for you because this is a matter of neighbour law. Within two metres of the property boundary, no window or window opening may be placed that provides a view of someone else's property. (with a few exceptions). Now that the neighbour is building, you could consider a building stop in summary proceedings. If the window is placed, it must be opaque on the side that overlooks your property and inside the house.