Cardiff Encroachment Permits - Pavements & Streets
In Cardiff, Wales, works or structures that occupy the public highway or pavements usually need an encroachment licence or highway permission from the council. This guide explains who is responsible, typical permit types, how enforcement works and practical steps for businesses and contractors using pavements or streets for signs, scaffolding, tables and chairs, storage or temporary works.
Permits and When They Apply
Encroachment permits cover permanent or temporary use of the public highway including pavements, footways and carriageways. Typical uses requiring permission include scaffolding, skips, hoardings, dining areas, A-boards and materials storage. The local highways authority issues licences or permits and may require a fee, insurance and a safety plan.
- Scaffolding, hoardings and scaffold licences
- Temporary structures and event encroachments
- Street café / tables and chairs licences
- Obstruction notices for deliveries or storage
Penalties & Enforcement
The council enforces highway licences, obstruction rules and safety conditions through its highways or street-works teams. Specific fine amounts and statutory sections are not specified on the council pages cited in the Resources section; see the reporting contact below for current enforcement practice.
To report an obstruction, apply for a licence or contact highways enforcement use the council reporting/contact page: Cardiff Council Highways contact[1]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page
- Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page
- Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, notices to remove works, stop-work orders and court action where necessary
- Appeals and reviews: appeal routes not specified on the cited page; contact highways for time limits and review procedure
- Enforcer and inspection: Cardiff Council Highways / Street Works team (use the contact link above to report)
Applications & Forms
The council publishes highway licence application procedures and may require plans, proof of insurance and risk assessments. Specific form names or fees are not specified on the cited page; applicants should use the council highways contact to request the correct application form and guidance.
Common Violations
- Unauthorised placement of signs or furniture on the pavement
- Works without a road or pavement permit
- Failing to provide agreed safety measures around works
Action Steps
- Identify whether your activity occupies the highway and needs a licence
- Prepare a site plan, method statement and public safety measures
- Contact Cardiff Council Highways for the correct application form and fee details
- If notified of an enforcement action, follow appeal instructions and seek a review within the timescale given
FAQ
- Do I need permission to place tables and chairs on a pavement?
- Yes. A pavement or street licence is normally required; contact the council highways team for the application and conditions.
- What happens if I place a sign without a permit?
- The council may issue a notice requiring removal and apply sanctions; specific fines are not specified on the cited page.
- How long does a licence take to process?
- Processing times vary; applicants should contact the highways team as early as possible.
How-To
- Check whether your planned activity occupies the highway or pavement and needs a licence.
- Prepare required documents: site plan, risk assessment, proof of public liability insurance.
- Contact Cardiff Council Highways to request the application form and fee details and submit the application as instructed.
- Allow time for consultation and any site inspection; comply with any safety conditions on the licence.
- Pay any licence fees and retain the licence or permit on site while works or placement continue.
Key Takeaways
- Most uses of pavements or streets require permission from Cardiff Council Highways.
- Contact the council early to get the correct form and avoid enforcement action.
Help and Support / Resources
- Cardiff Council main site
- Street works and highway licences - Cardiff Council
- Cardiff Council contact and reporting