Crane licence
You'll need a licence to either use a crane on a public highway or a crane that sails over a public highway.
To place a crane on the public highway, you must have a Section 178 licence granted before works take place.
You also need a Section 178 licence to place any of these on a public highway:
- mobile elevating work platform (MEWP)
- scissor lift
- cherry picker
- concrete pump (or similar)
Before you start
Before starting the application, make sure you have:
- a copy of your company's public liability insurance
- company bank details, VAT number and company number on letter headed paper
- all relevant site plans or diagrams, including traffic order pedestrian management plans
- confirmation of any road closures, parking bay suspensions and planning permissions applied for (if applicable)
Apply for a licence
To apply:
Download the crane licence application form
Send your completed application to the address on the form.
You must apply for the licence at least 15 working days before works begin. If we need to meet with you, more notice will be needed.
We might need to meet with you on site to discuss how your works might impact the highway. We recommend you apply with as much advance notice as possible.
Fees
A crane licence costs:
- £351 for the first day of operation
- £167 for each additional day
An inspection will be carried out before works start. If damage is found on the highway, the company shown on the licence document will be responsible for paying for repairs to the highway. These repairs will be carried out by the council and will charged back.
If you cancel the licence, you will be charged a cancellation fee of 30% of the licence fee.
Conditions
We'll inspect your site regularly. Your licensed activity must meet our terms and conditions. The terms and conditions must be agreed during your application.
If you have any queries or concerns or need further information, email highwayslicensing@southwark.gov.uk.