Scaffolding licence - Make an application

Regulation Summary

Scaffolding, mobile towers, or hydraulic platforms erected for building maintenance within the Public Highway is restricted by legislation (The Highways Act 1980, Section 169) and requires a licence.

A licence can be valid for any period of 14 calendar days. For longer periods additional applications must be made and paid for.

When carrying out any building work/maintenance or removal of any part of a property, which is adjacent to the public highway (road, pavement or rear lane), the safety of all users of the highway must be paramount. This is achieved by providing safe areas at ground level or a platform at high level.

A pedestrian walkway must be maintained around the scaffolding, mobile tower or hydraulic platform. If this cannot be arranged, it must be designed in such a way that allows access under and through the scaffolding etc safely – with no trip hazards, no projecting tubes or fittings, and covered adequately to provide a working platform and to prevent materials or debris falling through. Poles must be highlighted. A reasonable free walking width must be maintained to enable persons in wheelchairs or prams, etc, to pass by the scaffolding, mobile tower, cherry picker or hydraulic platform safely.

Application process

The Streetworks Team only issues licences to scaffolding and other companies involved in the rental of aforementioned apparatus, as these companies have the necessary public liability insurance that is required.

Please note: We must process your application and issue a licence number before the apparatus can be placed on the Highway. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period, please contact us using the details below

Overview

Scaffolding operators are required to register their details and associated documents for validation by RCT CBC. Only when registration is validated will the scaffolding operator be able to apply for a scaffolding licence(s).

Register as a Scaffolding Operator

To register as a scaffolding operator, please complete the  'Scaffolding Operator Registration Form' on the right hand side of this page and return via email to skips&scaffolding@rctcbc.gov.uk with the requested document/s.

Costs

The determination (whether granted or refused/cancelled or otherwise) of a licence application currently costs £37.70 which is non-refundable . The licence is valid for a period of 14 calendar days. Subsequent periods will be charged at £37.70 (non-refundable) per 14 calender days or part thereof.

Timescales

Scaffolding licence min process time – 2 working days

Appeal Process

Please contact the Streetworks Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Is scaffolding/mobile towers/hydraulic platforms allowed on the pavement?

Yes, provided that an inspector is satisfied there is no danger to pedestrians or risk of damage to the footway.

Is scaffolding/mobile towers/hydraulic platforms allowed on a rear lane?

Yes, provided  that access can be maintained and provided that an inspector is satisfied there is no danger to pedestrians.

What advice can you give me on scaffolding/mobile towers/hydraulic platforms requirements?

During the erection or dismantling period, a safe working area at ground level is required to prevent pedestrians gaining access to work areas. This may mean that in Town Centres, this work might have  to be carried out outside of normal working hours, i.e. after 6pm or before 8.00 am or on a Sunday.

A pedestrian walkway must be maintained and be designed to allow access under and through the scaffolding safely with no trip hazards, no projecting tubes or fittings, covered adequately to provide a working platform and prevent materials and debris falling through. Poles must be highlighted and a reasonable free walking width must be maintained to enable persons in wheelchairs/prams etc, to pass the scaffolding safely.

How can I make an Urgent complaint regarding location or dangerous scaffolding/mobile towers or hydraulic platforms?

Any urgent complaints about the location or safety of scaffolding etc should be reported to the Council’s Streetworks Team immediately on email skips&scaffolding@rctcbc.gov.uk. If outside normal working hours you can contact the Council’s emergency number (01443 425011)

Complaints / objections

If you have a complaint or query regarding any scaffolding/mobile tower/hydraulic platform issues please contact the Streetworks team via e-mail skips&scaffolding@rctcbc.gov.uk or by contacting Customer Services on 01443 425001 to request a complaint/objection be logged and passed to the Streetworks Team.

Public registers

There is currently no public register on scaffolding licence approvals in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Further information

Further information can be obtained by contacting us on the details below: