Skip permits: when you need one and what they cost
Updated 30 September 2026
A skip on the road or pavement needs permission from the council, because the council is the highway authority. The rule comes from section 139 of the Highways Act 1980, which also lets councils set conditions on where the skip goes, its lighting and markings, and when it’s removed (legislation.gov.uk).
Who applies?
Usually the skip firm, not you. Several councils only issue skip permits to registered or accredited skip companies. So ask your firm whether the permit is included in the price, and how much notice they need.
What about a driveway?
Some councils say plainly that a skip on private land, such as your driveway, doesn’t need a licence. City of York Council and North Yorkshire Council both do. If you’re not sure, check your council’s page below or ask the skip firm.
Fees and notice by council
| Council | Fee | Notice | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| City of York | £76 for 1 to 14 days; £56 extra with under 3 days’ notice | 3 working days | York |
| North Yorkshire | £91.42 for two weeks; £35.56 extra to start within 3 days | No extensions: reapply | North Yorkshire |
| East Riding | £39 (up to 12 cubic yards) or £48 (larger) for 14 days, from April 2026 | Short-notice fees apply | East Riding |
| Somerset | £109 for 28 days | At least 10 working days | Somerset |
| Bath and North East Somerset | Not published on its page | 2 days urgent, up to 5 days otherwise | B&NES |
Wiltshire Council’s website couldn’t be checked automatically, so look up its skip licence page directly or ask your skip firm.
Conditions to expect
York, for example, says skips on the road must be lit at night and have cones around them, and can’t go on a footway or double yellow lines (York). Councils can charge penalties for unlicensed skips or skips without proper signs and guarding, so it’s worth making sure the permit is in place before delivery.
Find a skip
Our area pages show which firms say they arrange the permit for you: Somerset & Wiltshire · North & East Yorkshire