Scaffold and hoarding permit

General conditions

• Scaffolding/hoarding must not be placed on the highway without prior written approval from the Highway Network Manager or their representative.
• Unauthorised erection is an offence under the Highways Act 1980 and may result in prosecution.
• The applicant is responsible for ensuring the structure does not obstruct road users and complies with all relevant legislation.
• Minimum public liability insurance of £5 million is required, covering the full permit period. Changes to the policy must be reported immediately.
• The applicant indemnifies Staffordshire County Council against any claims arising from the structure.
• Applications must be submitted at least 10 working days before the intended start date.
• Works may only occur between 07:30 and 20:30 unless otherwise specified.
• Separate permissions are required for other items (e.g. skips).

Scaffolding and hoarding requirements

• Must comply with BS 5973:1993 standards.
• Notify local police before loading/unloading components.
• Provide and maintain warning signs and lamps per Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual.
• Ensure safe pedestrian access per Health and Safety and Disability legislation.
• Provide either a covered platform or footway under the structure with minimum headroom of 2.13m and footway width of 1.25m–1.5m.
• Install pedestrian barriers with tapping rails and handrails in red and white bands.
• Diagonal supports must not obstruct the highway; provide alternative walkways if needed.
• Wrap vertical scaffolding within 2m of ground in cushioning and hi-vis tape.
• Install black and white boards and cones near carriageway-facing scaffolding.
• Use appropriate road signs and danger lamps with correct flashing rates and placement.
• Use steel plates under vertical poles to protect the highway surface.
• Prevent falling objects with boarding and screening; doors must not open onto the highway.
• Scaffolding must be earthed per BS 6651 – 1992.
• Allow access to utility companies and highway authority as needed.
• Prevent water from falling onto the highway during building washing.
• Walk-through scaffolding must be fenced to 1.83m height to prevent unauthorised access.
• Loose components must be secured in fenced areas.
• Hoists and pulleys must be fenced; loads must be protected when raised/lowered.
• Remove lower ladders when not in use.
• Maintain the structure to avoid hazards.
• Remove the structure and repair any damage to the highway upon completion.

Additional conditions

• Comply with Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 guidance on safe erection and dismantling.
• Additional site-specific conditions may be added or removed as needed.
• Traffic includes pedestrians and animals.
• Permission only covers traffic safety measures, not structural safety or design.
• Responsibility for safety and stability lies with the applicant. Contact your district council’s building regulation section for advice if needed.