This is general guidance based on standard permitted development rights in England. Rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties with Article 4 directions. Always confirm with your local planning authority before starting work.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Dropped Kerb?
Lowering the kerb at the edge of the road to allow vehicles to cross the pavement onto a driveway. This requires permission from the highway authority (usually the local council), which is separate from planning permission.
The General Position
This project typically requires a formal planning application to your local council. You will need to submit plans and wait for approval before starting work.
Permission is required from the highway authority (typically the local council's highways department). A dropped kerb is a modification to the public highway, which requires a formal application. This is separate from planning permission. The council or their approved contractor carries out the physical work.
Conditions and Requirements
- 1Must apply to the local council's highways department
- 2The council will assess highway safety, visibility, and pedestrian impact
- 3The pavement and kerb must be reinstated to the council's standards
- 4The council or their approved contractor must carry out the kerb work
- 5The applicant bears the cost of the works
Size and Dimension Limits
- Width depends on the council's standards and the driveway access required
- Typically 2.4m to 4.8m wide for a single or double-width crossing
When Permitted Development Does Not Apply
- The council can refuse if the crossing would be unsafe (near a junction, pedestrian crossing, or on a fast road)
- Some councils have waiting lists for dropped kerb applications
- You may also need planning permission for the driveway itself (see driveway paving rules)
- Parking on a dropped kerb is a separate enforcement matter under highway law
What About Building Regulations?
Building Regulations do not apply to dropped kerbs. The work is governed by highways legislation. The council's highways team will specify the construction standards.
Building regulations are separate from planning permission. You may need both, one, or neither depending on your project. Building regulations cover the safety and quality of building work, including structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, and drainage.
How to Apply for Planning Permission
Check if you need permission
Review the permitted development rules above. If in doubt, contact your council or apply for a Lawful Development Certificate.
Prepare your application
You will need scaled drawings, a site plan, and a completed application form. An architect or planning consultant can help with this.
Submit to your local council
Applications can be submitted online via the Planning Portal or directly to your council. Select your council below for a direct link.
Wait for a decision
Varies by council; typically 4 to 12 weeks from application to completion. Some councils have longer waiting times..
Application cost: Application fee varies by council (typically £100 to £350). The physical works are charged separately and can cost £800 to £2,500 depending on the width and council rates..
What Happens If I Build Without Permission?
Driving over a full-height kerb without a dropped kerb is a highway offence. The council can prosecute and reinstate the kerb at the homeowner's cost. Damage to the pavement from vehicles crossing without a proper crossing is the vehicle owner's liability.
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Select Your Council
Choose your local council for guidance specific to your area, including links to apply and whether your council has conservation areas or Article 4 directions that could affect your project.
London
South East
South West
East of England
East Midlands
West Midlands
North East
North West
Yorkshire and the Humber
CA = has conservation areas. A4 = has Article 4 directions. These may restrict your permitted development rights.