You will need permission from the Council prior to placing a scaffold or hoarding on any highway maintained by this Authority.  If the scaffold or hoarding is to be erected on privately owned land then no permission or licence is required.

It is the responsibility of the builder or scaffolding hire company to get a licence for any scaffolding/hoarding that is put up on the highway (this includes the footway).

Property Owner – You will need:

• To check that the scaffolding company/contractor has the appropriate permissions/licences and that these do not expire before the works are completed.

Scaffold/Building Company - You will need:

• Written permission from the Council
• Public Liability insurance cover with a £5million indemnity limit for both the Contractor and Scaffolder.

Process

Please be aware that access restrictions are now in place for specific streets in Bath City Centre as part of the Bath City Centre Security Scheme.

Find further detail on the restrictions and learn how to apply for an access permit on the City Centre Security Works website.

The process for placing a scaffold on the public highway is as follows:

1. The scaffold/building company requests a licence by contacting Council Connect on 01225 394041
2. The scaffold/building company completes the licence application form. This is available as a Word file or PDF.
3. The scaffold/building company returns the completed form to network_licences@bathnes.gov.uk
4. For applications made over 5 working days notice, an administration fee of £71 should be paid via our portal link.  For applications made with under 5 working days notice, an administration fee of £101 should be paid via our portal link. Please note that fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
5. Proof of current public liability insurance cover policy not less than £5 million indemnity limit.
6. A site plan and details of scaffold/hoarding including dimensions.
7. A Council Highways Inspector will check that the proposed location is suitable to place a scaffold/hoarding.
8. If approved the Council will issue the appropriate licence to the applicant and a copy to the contractor. The scaffold/hoarding must not be erected before the licence is granted.
9. Once the licence is issued the scaffold/hoarding can be placed on site at the agreed location and must abide by the conditions set by the Council.

This process can take up to 10 working days so early application is advisable