Section 50 streetworks licence - new apparatus

This process must be followed when the applicant intends to place and retain new apparatus in the highway.

All reasonably practicable steps must be taken to identify other apparatus in the vicinity of the works applied for. It is recommended that the results of any enquiries are no older than three months.

Licences are fulfilled when special conditions are met.

Before you apply

The applicant must submit the following with an application form:

• two copies of a scale plan of the proposed location of the apparatus marked by a red broken line
• proof of the contractor’s public liability Insurance. This must provide a minimum £5m cover and be maintained from commencement of the works on the highway up to completion and acceptance by the Street Authority of the permanent reinstatement
• proof of the contractor’s street works accreditation qualifications.  It is a requirement under the New Roads & Street Works Act 1991 that any person or organisation who wishes to open a public highway to carry out any installation, inspection, adjustment, repair or alteration of apparatus must ensure that the works are supervised by a fully certified supervisor (excavation AND reinstatement) and carried out by a certificated operative
• payment of £562 (or £612 if works over 1.5 metres in depth). This payment is exempt from VAT and is made up as follows:
  • £412 administration charge
  • £150 inspection fees (or £200 if works over 1.5 metres in depth)

Payment is due on application and we prefer this to be made by credit or debit card over the phone. We can also accept cheques, made payable to Dorset Council.