Scaffolding and hoarding

When carrying out any building work, maintenance or removal of any part of a property which is adjacent to the public highway (road, pavement or rear lane), the safety of all users of the highway must be paramount.

This is achieved by providing safe areas at ground level or a platform at high level. When it is necessary to place hoardings on the highway around the place of work or scaffolding, permission is necessary and can be obtained from the Council. Once permission has been granted, the conditions attached to the licence must be carefully read and kept to at all times. 

A scaffolding or hoarding licence request should be completed at least five days prior to when the licence is required to commence.

Permit fees

Scaffold - £365 for a three-month period plus £98 inspection fee plus refundable deposit charge against damage to public highway.  

Scaffold Licence extension is £77 per 3 months.

Hoarding - £365 for a three-month period plus £98 inspection fee plus refundable deposit charge against damage to public highway.

Hoarding Licence extension is £77 per 3 months.

There will be a £500 penalty fee if a site is found without a valid licence.

How do I report scaffolding or hoarding which is causing an obstruction?

You can report any scaffolding or hoarding that is obstructing the public highway using the online form. An inspector will then arrange a site visit and, if necessary, contact the scaffolding company to ensure corrective action is taken.

Please note that we can’t help if the road is on the red route network and you should report any concerns to Transport for London.