Guidance for depositing materials on the highway
Legal requirement
Under Section 171 of the Highways Act 1980, any deposit of materials on the highway—even for a short duration—requires a licence from the local highway authority. Depositing materials without permission is a statutory offence and may lead to prosecution, fines, or enforcement action.
Licence duration
The standard licence is valid for 24 hours. If materials need to remain longer, an extension or a new licence must be obtained.
Consent
Written consent from Coventry City Council is required before depositing any materials on the highway.
Application process
Licences can be applied for online via the Coventry City Council website. There is no fee for the licence.
Safety requirements
Adequate signs, lighting, and guarding must be in place, especially during hours of darkness. The highway must remain clean and tidy, and the site cleared after removal.
Insurance
Proof of public liability insurance is required to cover potential damage or injury.
Alternative options
Placing materials on private land is encouraged to avoid the need for a highway licence and reduce public risk.
Highways
Enforcement and removal
If materials are placed without a licence, a notice will be served requiring removal within 5 to 10 working days. Failure to comply allows Coventry City Council to arrange removal and storage after obtaining an Order for Removal and Disposal from the Magistrates' Court. Application costs range from £200–£300, plus legal time charged at £242 for two hours.
Removal costs
- Minimum charge for two operatives with a tipper truck: £340
- JCB assistance (half-day rate): £250
- Supervisor visit for storage access at Tom Whites: £100
Examples
- 1-ton bag of sand: £690 for removal; £1,380 if returned without resident’s machinery; £790 if resident collects with own equipment.
- Small paving slabs/rocks: £340 for removal; same cost for return unless collected by the resident.
Highways
Apply for a licence for materials on the highway
Please complete the application form [https://myaccount.coventry.gov.uk/en/service/materials_on_the_highway].
There is no charge for the application for a 24-hour licence to place materials on the highway.