Scaffold and hoarding licences

A scaffolding and hoarding licence is required for any scaffold or hoarding that is erected or encroaches on the public highway. This includes private streets where the public have right of access. You don't need a licence to place scaffolding on private roads.

Every application is considered on an individual basis and site-specific conditions may be applied to ensure public safety. Please note that scaffolding companies must apply on behalf of their customers.

What documentation is required?

Please provide all the following information along with your application:

• Scanned copy of a valid Public Liability Insurance Certificate for a minimum of £10 million.
• Confirmation of how many metres of footway will be available for pedestrian use. (A traffic management plan is required when 1.2 metre of footway cannot be maintained)
• A drawing of the layout of the scaffolding/hoarding structure. This should be labelled with dimensions, show where the structure will be in relation to the building, and also show street features immediately around the structure such as the pavement, streetlights and road.
• Google Maps Image highlighting works location. 

Fees

The cost of the licence is £238 for the first 4 weeks. A charge of £148 is required for each 4 week period thereafter.

Extra charges may apply if:

• Wokingham Borough Council contractors are called to light the site or otherwise make it safe.
• A bus stop suspension is required – the applicant must arrange this with the bus service provider.
• If traffic management is required.
• If parking bays need to be suspended.

Please allow a minimum of 10 working days between applying for and the proposed commencement date of your licence. Your application will be delayed and possibly rejected if you do not pay the appropriate amount of the fee and submit all the required documents.

Drawing guidance

Your drawing should be an overhead view (add a side view if possible), clearly showing the following:

• Labelled dimensions (width of footway, width of scaffolding, width of space left for pedestrians to pass).
• How your scaffolding is going to occupy the footway.
• A safe unobstructed route for pedestrians at least 1.2 metres wide.
• Which traffic signs will be used (if any).
• Where such signs and guarding will be positioned around the site.
• That any illuminated sign or roadside furniture will not be interfered with.
• That traffic lights, and any sensor on top of it, will not be blocked.
• That a 500 millimetres clearance from the edge of the kerb will be maintained for the whole length of the scaffolding / hoarding, (or details of what safety barriers will be used to keep vehicles clear).

Pedestrian guidance

1. A footway must have an absolute minimum width of a 1.2 metres (1200 millimetres) of clear unobstructed walkway maintained at all times for the entire length of scaffold. Where this is not achievable, you will need to demonstrate how pedestrians will be managed and how an alternative walkway will be provided. You will need to consider the New Roads and Streetworks Act 1991 and Chapter 8 Signs Manual. You may need to seek advice or instruct a competent traffic management provider.
2. Where a footway is closed: a temporary walkway or signed pedestrian diversion route (using ramps and safe crossing points) must be provided. This must be shown on a Traffic Management Plan.

Application form

To apply for a scaffold and/or hoarding licence, click the button below and fill in our online form.

Scaffold and hoarding licence application form