diff --git a/nginx.nix b/nginx.nix
index 407d14a..58f2af7 100644
--- a/nginx.nix
+++ b/nginx.nix
@@ -174,4 +174,9 @@ in
     acceptTerms = true;
     defaults.email = "hvanb@pm.me";
   };
+  
+  # Ensure the data directory exists with proper permissions
+  systemd.tmpfiles.rules = [
+    "d /var/lib/www 0750 nginx nginx -"
+  ];
 }