Short answer: Only if the scaffold crosses a public pavement or road. If it stays within your property boundary, no licence is needed. Fines for non-compliance reach £5,000.
Key Takeaways
- Pavement licence is required only if scaffold crosses public land.
- Scaffold on private land only: no licence needed.
- Fines for scaffolding without a licence: up to £5,000.
- The scaffolding company applies on your behalf.
- Lead time: most councils require 10 working days minimum notice.
- Licence costs vary: £134-£320 for a 2-6 week period is typical.
When do you need a pavement licence?
If any part of the scaffold extends over the boundary onto a public pavement, road or footpath, a licence is required. In practice this most commonly affects:
- Mid-terraced houses — front scaffold often extends slightly over the pavement
- Town-centre properties — close to or abutting the pavement
- Properties on busy roads — boundary close to the kerbline
Detached properties with driveways or gardens in front typically need no licence.
How much does the licence cost?
| Council area | Typical licence cost | Period |
|---|---|---|
| Surrey County Council | £208 | Per 28 days |
| Hertfordshire | £134 + £59/week after | 14-day base licence |
| Brighton & Hove | £102-£319 | 6 weeks |
| London boroughs (residential) | Varies — often higher | Per month |
| Lancashire (Burnley, Pendle, Blackburn) | Typically £80-£200 | Per 4-week period |
How does the application process work?
- Scaffolding company confirms the scaffold will extend onto public land
- Company submits the licence application to the local highways department
- Most councils require 10 working days' minimum notice
- Licence is granted with conditions (lighting, pedestrian clearance, signing)
- Licence document must be displayed on the scaffold during the hire period
Is the pavement licence cost included in a scaffold quote?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Some scaffolders include it as a fixed addition; others pass the council cost through. Ask explicitly: "Is the pavement licence fee included, and what is the cost for our local authority?"
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a pavement licence for solar panel scaffolding?
Only if the scaffold extends over a public pavement or road. If the scaffold sits entirely within your private property boundary, no licence is required. For terraced houses and town-centre properties, a pavement licence from the local council is usually needed.
Who applies for the pavement licence for scaffolding?
The scaffolding company applies on your behalf. Most reputable scaffolders handle the application as part of the service. However, it is your responsibility as the homeowner to confirm the licence is obtained and displayed before work starts.
How much does a scaffolding pavement licence cost?
Costs vary by council. Surrey charges £208 per 28-day period. Hertfordshire charges £134 for 14 days, then £59 per additional week. Brighton charges £102-£319 for a 6-week period. London boroughs tend to be higher. Your scaffolding company should be able to advise on your local council's rate.
How long does a pavement licence application take?
Most councils require at least 10 working days' notice. Surrey asks for this minimum lead time; some require up to 3 weeks. Factor this into your project timeline — a delayed licence application can push back the installation start date.
What happens if you put up scaffolding without a pavement licence?
You could be fined up to £5,000 by the local authority. The council can also require immediate removal of the scaffold. Always confirm whether a licence is needed before erection day.
Does a pavement licence affect the scaffolding cost?
Yes — the licence fee is an additional cost on top of scaffold hire. Some scaffolders include it in their quote; others charge it as a pass-through. Ask explicitly when quoting whether the licence cost is included or separate.