Before you order your skip, you need to know where it’s going to be placed. The driver must be able to get easy access to the area so the skip can be delivered and collected. It must also be placed in a position that is easy for you to load. If you have a private drive, then things are simple - usually a skip can fit on your driveway without worry. But if you don’t have suitable land, you will have to consider another location.
Skips can be placed onto the public highway outside or near your property but there are regulations for this. You will probably need a permit and there may be some other requirements too. To understand what is needed, take a look at our guide to skip permits and licences.
When do I need a skip permit or licence?
A skip permit is needed if you want to put a skip on a public road. You don’t need a permit if you are going to place a skip on your own private land such as the drive or garden.
Does the permit come with the skip hire?
Permits do not come with the skip hire. If needed, it is your responsibility to apply and obtain the permit. Any costs associated with the permit are yours to pay in addition to the skip hire fee.
Where do you get a skip permit/licence?
Skip permits are issued by individual local councils and each council can take a different approach to providing this service so check your council’s information pages. More information can be found on the government website www.gov.uk . By entering your postcode, you’ll be given a link directing you to the relevant local council page.
How much does a skip permit cost?
The local council sets the fees and charges which can vary greatly. Across England and Wales you can expect the fee to be between £20 and £30. However, the average permit fee in Greater London is £68 for a licence that will typically last for 1 or 2 weeks.
Who is responsible for getting a skip permit/ licence?
You will be required to apply for and pay for the permit yourself. This is usually a straightforward online form filling exercise. If you need assistance with the process, contact us and we will guide you through it.
How long does it take to get a skip permit/licence?
Generally it takes between 3 and 4 days from the initial application to receiving your permit. To avoid frustration, it is important that you take this into account when planning your project. As with all local authority permitting, the exact timeframe will vary depending on your local council. It is advisable to check timescales with them when you start planning any work that requires a skip licence.
What happens if I do not have a skip permit?
If you don’t have the required permit, the skip could be removed, and it is likely that you will be issued with a fine by your local council.
Can a skip be put on the pavement?
Skips cannot be placed on a pavement in any circumstances.
Are there any restrictions for placing skips on public roads?
Your local council may require you to put safety lights and markings on the skip. It will depend on the local regulations and the type of road. There could be other requirements too and these could include:
- Night-time safety lights
- Reflective markings
- Traffic cones
- Displaying the phone number and name of the skip hire company
It is important to contact your local council to understand the exact rules for lighting and marking requirements in your area. If you fail to put up the correct safety lights and markings, you could be fined up to £1,000.
What are the rules for positioning a skip?
Positioning a skip safely just requires common sense, a summary of the rules and considerations are:
- The skip cannot cover or block utility or access points such as manhole covers or fire hydrants
- The skip must be placed lengthways along the road – not poking out into the road causing a potential hazard
- The skip must not block any pavements
- Entrances and exits to driveways and properties must be kept clear, unless specific permission has been granted by the property owner
- As a general rule, a skip must not be sited within 15 metres of a junction
- When a skip needs to be placed in a pay and display parking bay or on yellow lines, a suspension of parking permit will also be required. This is issued by your local authority and pricing will vary.
Are there any circumstances when a skip permit is not required?
You don’t need a skip permit if you are putting the skip entirely on private land. A common example are driveways and gardens with suitable access. These are convenient locations that don’t require any local council licencing.