How to secure a pavement licence for external displays

If you want to place clothing rails, mannequins, or A-boards on the pavement outside your shop, you must first obtain a pavement licence from your local council. This legal requirement ensures that the public highway remains safe and accessible for all pedestrians, particularly those with visual or mobility impairments, and failing to secure one can result in heavy fines or the immediate removal of your displays.

What is a pavement licence?

A pavement licence is a temporary permit granted by your local authority. While often associated with "tables and chairs" for cafes, it also covers "removable furniture" used by retail businesses to sell or advertise. This includes:

• Clothing rails and display racks.
• Mannequins.
• Signage, such as A-boards.
• Planters used to demarcate your shop's exterior space.

How to apply for your licence

The application process is handled entirely by your local council. Because rules can vary slightly between boroughs, your first step should always be to visit your council's website and search for "pavement licence" or "street trading."

1. Check the requirements: Most councils require a site plan showing the exact dimensions of the area you wish to use. You must usually leave a minimum width of clear pavement (often 2 metres) for pedestrians.
2. Prepare your documentation: You will typically need to provide photos or sketches of the items you plan to put outside, along with proof of Public Liability Insurance (usually covering at least £5 million).
3. Submit and pay: Applications are usually submitted online. Under the Business and Planning Act 2020, councils generally cap the application fee at £100, though this can vary depending on the length of the licence.
4. Public Consultation: Once you apply, you must fix a "notice of application" to your shop window. This gives the public a set period (usually 7 days) to submit any comments or objections to the council.

Tips for a successful application

Top Tip: Before buying expensive outdoor displays, check your council's specific policy on A-boards. Some UK councils have a "zero tolerance" policy on A-boards even if they allow clothing rails, citing them as a particular hazard for the visually impaired.

Do	Don't
Ensure furniture is "removable" (stored inside at night).	Bolt anything to the ground or pavement.
Maintain a clear "pedestrian zone" at all times.	Place items in a way that blocks fire exits or tactile paving.
Keep your Public Liability Insurance up to date.	Forget to renew your licence before it expires.

Once granted, your licence will usually last for a year (though some are shorter). Keep a copy of the permit on the premises at all times, as council enforcement officers may ask to see it during routine checks.