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Skips, scaffolding and hoarding licensing

If you need to place scaffolding, hoarding, skips, or deposits on public highways in Leicester, you must apply for a permit through us. This ensures public safety, minimises disruption, and keeps streets accessible.

When do you need a licence?

A licence is required for:

  • Scaffolding – temporary structures for construction, maintenance, or repair work.
  • Hoarding – barriers around construction sites.
  • Skips – for construction or renovation waste on public highways.
  • Deposits – materials or equipment temporarily placed on the highway as part of construction or maintenance work.

Before you apply

1. Read the guidance document

All applicants and licence holders must review the Scaffolding, Hoarding, Skips and Deposits on Highway Permissions Guidance Document before applying.

  • The guidance document outlines the legal responsibilities and best practices for ensuring public safety and minimising disruption.
  • Compliance with all guidance document requirements is mandatory.
  • Failure to comply with the guidance could result in enforcement action, including licence revocation, fines, or legal action.

The latest guidance document can be found at the bottom of this page.

2. Include a detailed site plan

Your application must include a detailed site plan that shows:

  • Location and size of the scaffolding, hoarding, skip, or deposit.
  • Clear pedestrian and vehicle access routes.
  • Any required traffic management measures.

Before submitting your application, check the sample plans available in the document section of this page.

Applications will be rejected if compliant plans are not submitted.

How much will it cost?

Fees for licences vary depending on the duration and location. View the schedule of fees and charges (PDF).

Additional costs may apply if:

  • Extensions to the licence are needed.
  • Additional traffic management measures are required.
  • Emergency works require fast-track processing.

Failure to remove scaffolding, hoarding, skips, or deposits by the licence expiry date may result in additional charges and enforcement action.

The income will also cover compliance checks.

How to apply

  1. Complete the online application form (see quick links above) - ensure all required details are included.
  2. Submit a site plan showing the exact location and layout.
  3. Provide valid insurance documents – see the insurance section below.
  4. Pay the required fee – fees vary depending on duration and location.
  5. Await approval – processing times vary (see timescales section).

Failure to obtain a licence before placing scaffolding, hoarding, skips, or deposits on a public highway may result in fines or enforcement action.

Insurance

  • Scaffolding – requires public liability insurance of at least £10 million.
  • Hoarding, skips, and deposits – require public liability insurance of at least £5 million.
  • Insurance must specifically cover any risks related to placing structures on the public highway and remain valid throughout the licence period.

How long will my application take?

It is important to apply in advance to allow for processing:

  • Scaffold/hoarding licences – apply at least 4 weeks in advance.
  • Skips and deposits – apply at least 3 working days in advance.
  • Road closures – apply at least 12 weeks in advance.
  • Technical approvals (for structures near highways) – apply at least 3 months in advance.

For emergency applications, such as dangerous structures, contact the council immediately for fast-track approval.

Other requirements

  • Skips must be properly marked and lit during the hours of darkness.
  • Scaffolding and hoarding must not obstruct footpaths or roadways unless agreed as part of the licence conditions.
  • Deposits must be securely stored and not cause a hazard to pedestrians or road users.
  • Access to public utilities and drainage must be maintained at all times.
  • Licences do not give permission to store materials on the highway unless specifically stated.
  • You may need additional permissions if your work affects trees, listed buildings, or conservation areas.

Standard conditions

All scaffolding, hoarding, skips, and deposits placed on the public highway must comply with standard conditions, which include:

  • Scaffolding must be properly erected and maintained in accordance with health and safety regulations.
  • Hoarding must be kept clean and well-maintained, with any graffiti removed promptly.
  • Skips and deposits must not obstruct traffic visibility or access to public utilities.
  • Lighting must be provided where required to ensure public safety.
  • Licence holders are responsible for any damage to the highway caused by their structures.

Failure to comply with any of these conditions may result in enforcement action and the removal of the structure at the licence holder’s expense.

Enforcements and penalties

We monitor compliance with regulations. Enforcement actions may include:

  • Fines for unlicensed or non-compliant structures.
  • Immediate removal of illegal scaffolding, hoarding, skips, or deposits.
  • Prosecution for serious breaches.

Ensure you apply in time and follow regulations to help keep Leicester’s streets safe and accessible.

Help with documents

If you have problems accessing or viewing any of the key strategy documents, please email [email protected].