Do Streetworks regulations apply to skips and scaffolding?

Q: I'm placing scaffolding on the pavement (footway) and a skip on the road (carriageway). Do I need to be qualified under the New Roads & Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA)?

A:
Skips and scaffolding placed on the public highway (including roads, pavements, and verges) do not typically fall under the NRSWA, unless part of utility works carried out by statutory undertakers (like water, gas, or electricity providers).

Do I Need Permission from My Local Council?

Yes; both skips and scaffolding require local authority permission, but these are covered under the Highways Act 1980, not the NRSWA.

Skips

• Governed by the Highways Act 1980, Sections 139–140
• Require a skip permit from the local council if placed on public land
• Must meet specific safety, lighting, and signage regulations

Scaffolding

• Covered by Highways Act 1980, Section 169
• Requires a scaffolding or hoarding licence
• Subject to rules on safe pedestrian access, illumination, and public safety

What do sections 139, 140 and 160 of the Highways Act 1980 mean?

• Section 139 – Local councils can grant permission for skips with conditions (e.g. time limits, signage).
• Section 140 – Allows councils or police to remove or reposition a skip that poses a danger or obstruction—and charge the operator.
• Section 169 – Prevents unauthorised obstructions on the public highway, requiring a valid scaffolding licence.

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