Street furniture licence

We can allow a street furniture licence for shopfront displays, advertising boards, barriers, or planters outside the premises in certain locations.

In many locations, there is not enough space to allow a shopfront licence. Generally, 1.5 metres of clear footway must be available for people to pass without obstruction. In busy areas, there will need to be more than 1.5 metres for pedestrians to pass easily.

If you wish to have street furniture for the items above outside your premises, you must apply for a licence under the Highway Act 1980.

Applying for a licence

You can apply for a street furniture licence by downloading an application form (PDF, 319kb). We advise you to read the guidance notes attached to the form before applying.

This process takes 28 days plus processing time. For a licence to place chairs and tables outside a premises, apply for a pavement licence

Before starting the application, make sure you have the following documents available:

  • a copy of your public liability insurance
  • company bank details and VAT number on letter headed paper (necessary to set your company up on our systems and to pay back any deposits or refunds on your account)

Please allow approximately five weeks for your licence application to be processed.

Fees

  • the standard licence fee is £263.30 for up to 2 square metres
  • any additional meterage is £106.70 per square metre

All payments must be made by the applicant. Once the application has been reviewed, you'll be contacted with confirmation of the required fees. You can then pay online or by telephone.

Check the full list of Highways licensing fees and charges. If you cancel a licence, there is a Cancellation Fee, which is 30% of the licence fee.

Legislation and conditions

Licenses are issued under the Highways Act 1980. Each permit has standard terms and conditions, although other conditions may be added. We'll inspect your site regularly. Your licensed activity must meet our terms and conditions, which must be agreed upon during your application.

If you have any queries or concerns or require further information, email highwayslicensing@southwark.gov.uk.

Page last updated: 11 September 2024

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