What is Section 50?

When working on the public highway in the UK, whether you are a utility company, private individual, or developer, you may need to obtain a Section 50 notice.

A Section 50 notice, issued under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, grants permission to install, maintain, or work on apparatus located beneath or within the highway.

This is different to being an undertaker which is the asset owner who would instead need a Section 51 licence.

A Section 50 would need to be obtained by private individuals looking to install an asset to their property, developers building new infrastructure requiring connection to public assets and contractors working on behalf of a client installing and maintaining apparatus under the road or footway.

What is Required for a Section 50 Application?

To apply for a Section 50 street works permit, you must provide the following to the local authority:

• Details of the proposed works, including location and duration
• Proof of public liability insurance (typically with a minimum cover of £5 million)
• Valid Street Works accreditations (e.g., SWQR card) to demonstrate competency
• Application fee – This varies by authority and scope of work
• Traffic management plan, if required, to ensure safe operations for vehicles and pedestrians

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in:

• Fines or enforcement action
• Liability for damage to the highway
• Delays or refusal of approval

Frequently Asked Questions About Section 50 Notices

Q: Who needs a Section 50 notice?
A: Anyone who is not the asset owner (undertaker) but intends to install, maintain, or work on apparatus within a public highway—such as private individuals, developers, or contractors—needs to apply for a Section 50 notice.

Q: How do I apply for a Section 50 permit?
A: You apply through the relevant local authority by submitting details of the works, proof of insurance, street works accreditation, and paying the required fee. Some councils allow online applications via their website.

Q: How much does a Section 50 application cost?
A: The cost varies by local authority and depends on the scope and duration of the works. Fees typically range from £200 to £1,000+, including inspection charges.

Q: How long does it take to get approval for a Section 50?
A: Processing times vary, but you should allow at least 2–4 weeks. Delays can occur if documentation is incomplete or traffic management plans are required.

If you are interested in Streetworks courses, find out more here.

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