Apply for a licence to place scaffolding or hoarding on the highway
You need a licence to place scaffolding or hoarding on the highway. The licence application must be made by the scaffolding or hoarding company. The company must hold Chapter 8 Signing, Lighting and Guarding cards or certificates. We advise you to find a contractor registered on the Buy With Confidence scheme.
You need one licence for each scaffold structure or hoarding you wish to place. For example. you need two licences if you are:
- placing both scaffolding and hoarding
- erecting two separate scaffold structures at the same location (one licence for each structure)
A licence for scaffolding and/or hoarding costs £141. We need at least five working days to process an application. In an emergency situation, we may grant a licence in less than five working days at a cost of £170.50 per license.
A licence is valid for 21 days. If you need to place the scaffolding or hoarding for a longer period, you will need to apply for a new licence before your current licence expires.
To place building materials or traffic management on the highway, you also need to apply for section 171 licence.
Information for contractors
The safety of all pedestrians and road users is the top priority for us. You must take account of safety when working adjacent to the road or pavement, or any part of the highway.
It is an offence, under section 169 part 5 of the Highways Act, to place scaffolding or hoarding before the permitted date.
Before making an application, you must also make yourself familiar with the terms and conditions for this licence. We will charge £75 if we find you in breach of these terms and conditions. Please ensure you are applying to the correct authority for your licence as the application fee is non-refundable.
While making an application, you will need to upload a copy of your:
- public liability insurance certificate for at least £10 million
If you have any query, e-mail streetworks@swindon.gov.uk