Crane licence

To place a crane on the public highway, you need a Section 178 licence - this must be granted before works take place. You also need a Section 178 licence before placing a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP), scissor lift, cherry picker or concrete pump (or similar) on the highway.

Applying for a licence

Applications must be made at least 15 working days in advance of the start date required. A meeting may be required to discuss the operation's impact upon the use of the highway, we recommend you give us as much advance notice as possible.

You can apply for a crane licence by downloading an application form ^{(PDF, 2mb)}

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

• a copy of your company public liability insurance
• company bank details, VAT number and company number on letter headed paper (this is needed to set your company up on our systems and to pay back any deposits on your account)
• all relevant site plans or diagrams including traffic order pedestrian management plans
• confirmation of road closure applications/ parking bay suspensions/planning permissions applied for (if applicable) - you can apply for parking suspensions online 

Fees

All payments must be made by the applicant. The costs to apply for a licence are:

• £334 for the first day of operation
• £159 for each additional day
• £500 deposit for each crane operation (deposits will only be returned to the applicant)

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.

Conditions

We'll inspect your site on a regular basis. 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 require further information, email highwayslicensing@southwark.gov.uk.

Page last updated: 09 April 2024