Highway Licence for Skips
Placing a skip on the public highway requires obtaining a Highway Licence from us. This licencing requirement ensures that skips are placed safely, do not obstruct access, and are clearly marked to protect road users and pedestrians.
It helps maintain accessibility, supports safe waste management, and ensures coordination with other street activities. Through this process, we preserve the safety, integrity, and shared use of public spaces during construction or renovation works.
Examples of skip-related items requiring permission include:
- standard skips for domestic or commercial waste
- enclosed skips or containers
- mini skips or builders’ skips
- any skip placed on the highway for more than a few hours
Application for a Licence Must Be Made If:
- the skip will encroach upon any part of the public highway
- work on a private building affects pedestrian or vehicle access
- the skip is intended to remain in place overnight or for more than a few hours
Please visit our webpage on skip licences for more information:
Important to Note
A Highway Licence is required for any skip or container that occupies space on the highway without excavation.
Skips cannot be placed on the carriageway of a classified road. Please check the category of your proposed site before applying: Classified roads.
Application fees are non-refundable. Additional charges may apply for site inspections and a refundable deposit, calculated based on the risk and location. For full fee and deposit details, see our application fees and timescales webpage.
If no damage is found after the works, the deposit will be refunded in full. If damage is identified, repair costs will be deducted. Once the skip is removed, a final inspection will be carried out and the deposit returned.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via MySouthend: https://www.southend.gov.uk/xfp/form/156
As part of the application process, the applicant must provide the following:
- the proposed location and dimensions
- start and end dates
- a site plan or sketch
- contractor details
- proof of public liability insurance (minimum £10 million)
Additional safety measures, such as lighting, signage, or barriers, may be required depending on the location.
Applications must be submitted online via MySouthend: https://www.southend.gov.uk/xfp/form/156.
Please allow at least 10 working days to process your application.
The duration of the licence will be 21 calendar days.
What Happens Next
We will assess your application and provide a licence that outlines permitted dates and safety requirements. You must display the licence on-site and comply with all conditions. We reserve the right to refuse applications or require modifications if there are safety concerns or conflicting activities.
Amendments and Extensions to Approved Permits
If you need to change the details of an approved highway permit, such as extending the end date, amending the location, or updating contractor information, you must contact us as soon as possible.
Permit variations may include:
- extension of the authorised duration
- change to the structure type or dimensions
- substitution of contractor or insurance provider
- additional inspection charges may apply
Requests must be submitted at least 5 working days before the existing permit expires. Failure to do so may result in removal of items or enforcement action.
If any amendments or extensions are required, please request this through the MySouthend application.