Street Works Licence (Section 50) guidance

The Street Works Licence (SWL) and what you need to know

A SWL is a formal agreement between:

  • the people doing the work (the Licensee)
  • and the Council

The licence ends when:

  • the apparatus is removed from the highway
  • the licence is withdrawn
  • the licence expires
  • the licence is handed back

A SWL must be granted (unless they already have a statutory right) before any works can start.

The Licensee is responsible for following the duties and responsibilities set out by:

  • the NRSWA
  • any associated secondary legislation and codes of practice

Severe fines may be imposed on the Licensee for any non-compliance in relation to:

  • the requirements of the NRSWA
  • any applicable statutory duties or licence conditions

Licensees cannot pass their liability to any other person or organisation.

Note: Those applicants unsure of the requirements should employ a contractor to help complete the process. The contractor must:

  • be knowledgeable
  • have accreditation
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