Section 50 excavations
A licence gives permission to excavate or open the footway or carriageway to carry out various works on the highway.
Licensing is to balance the needs of businesses and residents with the public expectation of an unobstructed footway. Excavations on the public highway are not permitted until a licence has been agreed and issued.
To process the licence and ensure the coordination of works you will need to apply in accordance with the advance notice periods.
| Type of work |
Advance notice period for applications (Section 54 NRSWA 1991) |
Notice of starting date of work (Section 55 NRSWA 1991) |
Immediate notice (Section 57 NRSWA 1991) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Major |
Three months |
10 working days |
Not required |
|
Standard |
Not required |
10 working days |
Not required |
|
Minor |
Not required |
Three working days |
Not required |
|
Immediate: urgent |
Not required |
Two hours |
Not required |
|
Immediate: emergency |
Not required |
Not required |
Two hours after |
How to apply
Complete the online application form. As part of the application, you must provide the following information:
- a complete description of works to be carried out and a drawing or diagram of the exact location of where excavation is to take place
- estimated dates that you require the licence
- a copy of the NRSWA accreditation card showing proof of street works accreditation for one operative and one supervisor
- a method statement
- a risk assessment
- confirmation that you hold a public liability policy in for the sum of £10 million or above
- if applicable, you should also provide a plan of the plant, a traffic management plan and a pedestrian management plan.
If we approve your application, we will provide you with details of how to pay online. You do not have to pay as part of the online application.
Deposits and fees
You must pay a deposit to cover the cost of any damage caused to the highway that may occur during works or on completion of works. The licence fee schedule will determine the deposit to be paid for the licence. The management fee is determined by the duration of works. Non-excavation section 50s will have a charge of £500.
No payment is required with your application. If the application is approved, we will provide instructions on how to pay online by email.
|
Depth of excavation |
Deposit per metre square of area |
Deposit per metre length of perimeter |
Duration of works |
Management fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Up to 0.9 metres |
£200 |
£100 |
Up to three days |
£500 |
|
Over 0.9 metres to 1.5 metres |
£200 |
£100 |
Four to ten days |
£1,070 |
|
Over 1.5 metres |
£300 |
£100 |
Over ten days |
£2,800 |
If you need to extend the licence, you must apply within a reasonable period before your existing licence expires. Read about our extensions requests and fees.
You will be responsible for the provision and costs of traffic management and traffic signs on all affected roads, including any diversionary routes.
Contact details
If you have any questions, contact StreetWorks@islington.gov.uk.