July 30, 2023

Skip Permit – How Much & When You Need One – All In One Guide

Hiring a skip is a convenient way to dispose of large amounts of waste from home renovations, construction projects or clear-outs. However, there are rules and regulations around skip hire, including obtaining a permit if placing your skip on public land. Our guide explains everything you need to know about skip hire permits.

Here are 4 key takeaways from our skip hire permits article:

Skip permits are mandatory for placing a skip on public land (Roads & Highways) – you must apply through your local council. Skip Hire Permits are not needed on private land such as gardens & driveways.
Permit fees vary based on location, skip size, duration and council rates – typically £20.00 – £100.00.
Strictly follow all permit conditions or risk significant fines of up to £1000+ for non-compliance.
Some skip hire companies can arrange your skip hire permit for you, which will be factored into the overall cost. If you’re in need of skip hire in Coventry, why not speak to our team today?

What is Skip Hire?

Skip hire involves renting a large waste container to collect and dispose of bulky rubbish and debris. Skips come in various sizes, from mini skips, builders skips, maxi skips, and large RoRo skips to hold tonnes of waste. They can be delivered to homes, businesses or construction sites and then collected for waste disposal once filled.

Why Are Skip Permits Necessary?

Local councils require skip permits to regulate the placement of skips and ensure safety and minimal disruption. The key reasons permits are mandatory to include the following:

– Allows councils to monitor and control waste disposal activities in their area.

– Ensures public safety – prevents inappropriate placement that could endanger road users and pedestrians.

– Generates revenue for councils through permit application fees.

– Makes sure environmental regulations are followed, including proper transport and disposal of hazardous waste.

– Avoids obstructing roads, pavements and public access.

Who Needs a Skip Hire Permit?

In most council areas, you must obtain a permit if placing a skip on public land like roads, footpaths, nature strips or council reserves. Permits are required whether you are a tradesperson disposing of waste for customers or a homeowner clearing household rubbish. Always check the rules with your local authority first. Permit conditions and fees can vary between councils.

How to Apply for a Skip Hire Permit

Applying for a skip hire permit is straightforward; you can apply through your local council, some skip hire companies can do this on your behalf and will be added to the overall cost, or you can apply in the links below: https://www.gov.uk/find-licences/apply-skip-permit (England and Wales) or https://www.gov.uk/skip-licence-scotland (Scotland)

Skip Hire Permit Process

– Contact your local council to obtain a permit application form. This may be available on their website.

– Provide details, including the proposed skip location, placement dates, skip dimensions, type of waste to be cleared, and your contact information.

– Pay the applicable permit fee to your council. Prices range from around [£20 – £100] depending on council fees, skip size and proposed duration.

– Your council will issue a skip hire permit containing your approval documentation and permit number. For Coventry, you can view: https://www.coventry.gov.uk/licensing-regulation/skip-permit

– You can then arrange for your skip to be delivered, displaying permit details as required.

How Much Is A Skip Permit?

Skip permits are typically anywhere from £20.00 – £100.00 and are set by individual councils, and can vary across different areas. Typical factors affecting the permit cost include:

– Location – More expensive in high-traffic areas.

– Skip size – Larger skips require higher permit fees.

– Duration – The longer the permit period, the higher the fee.

– Waste type – Some hazardous wastes may incur additional fees.

Discounts or fee waivers are sometimes available for community groups and charities undertaking volunteer work. Contact your local council to confirm precise permit costs for your specific skip hire needs.

If you’re wondering how much it is for a skip permit in your area, below is an estimated guide to council permit prices for waste skips for some places across the UK.

Disclaimer: These figures are estimates only and are subject to change over time.

Birmingham City Council – £21 (1 week)
Brent Council – £56 (2 weeks)
Bromley Council – £38 (2 weeks)
Coventry City Council – £50 (2 weeks)
City of Edinburgh Council – £29 (1 week), £23 (per additional week)
Enfield Council – £75 (2 weeks)
London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham – £80 (1 month)
Hillingdon London Borough Council – £45 (1-2 weeks)
Hounslow London Borough Council – £89.20 (2 weeks)
Islington London Borough Council – £95 (1 month)
Leeds City Council – £16 (1 month)
Leicester City Council – £46 (1 week)

Skip Hire Permit Conditions

Your skip permit will come with standard conditions that must be followed to avoid fines or penalties. Common conditions include:

– Specified skip location and permitted duration – Strictly follow the approved placement dates and location.

– Avoiding obstructions – Do not block vehicle or pedestrian access. Maintain adequate clearance.

– Safety signage – Display required signs, safety lights, markings and hazard warnings.

– Noise and time limits – No loading outside permitted hours, typically 7 am-7 pm on weekdays.

– Secure site – Keep the skip covered and locked when not used.

– Waste containment – Do not overload or allow rubbish to spill from the skip.

Non-Compliance Penalties

Heavy fines apply for not obtaining a valid skip hire permit or breaching permit conditions. Penalties range from [£200-£1000+] depending on the severity and type of infringement. You may also face extra charges for council crews to relocate an incorrectly placed skip. Always follow permit rules to avoid an expensive lesson.

Fines can also be given for placing unauthorised waste in your skips; for more information on this, you can view our in-depth guide on what you can put in a skip to ensure you follow the correct guidelines.

How To Check If A Skip Has A Permit?

If you want to verify a skip placed on public land has a valid council permit, you can check for a few key things:

Look for the permit number displayed on the skip – this should be clearly printed.
Check for permit expiration date labels also shown on the skip.
See if official council permit stickers are attached to the skip exterior.
Require the skip hire company to provide a copy of the permit.
Contact your local council quoting the skip location and get them to confirm a current permit exists.
Ensure required safety signage and lights are present per permit conditions.

If unable to confirm a valid permit, report unpermitted skips to your council immediately. Do not use a skip that lacks proof of proper permitting.

Key Tips for Safe and Legal Skip Hire

Follow this checklist to ensure your skip hire is safe, compliant and hassle-free:

– Research permit requirements for your council area before booking a skip.

– Choose a suitable location with relevant authorities’ approval if placed on public land.

– Apply for and obtain a skip permit from your local council.

– Carefully follow all permit conditions and skip hire safety principles.

– Never overload the skip – distribute weight evenly.

– Secure the skip opening and cover when not in use.

– Avoid using the skip outside permitted hours.

– Display required signage like flashing lights at night time.

– Monitor and maintain safety barriers and traffic controls.

– Arrange prompt collection as soon as the skip is full.

– Check the site after collection and rectify any damage.

You can complete your project without incident by following these essential guidelines for your skip hire. Dispose of waste legally and safely with an appropriate skip permit.

Frequently Asked Questions On Skip Permits

We’ve done our best to try and answer some of the most frequently asked questions our customers ask when applying for a skip permit.

Do I need a permit for skip hire on private land?

No, permits are only required if you place your skip on public lands such as highways, nature strips, or council parks. For a skip entirely within private property boundaries, no permit is needed.

What happens if I don't get a skip permit?

Placing a skip on public land without a permit is illegal and can incur hefty fines from your council (typically £200-£1000). The council may also seize or relocate your unpermitted skip.

How early should I apply for a skip hire permit?

Apply at least 1-2 weeks before your proposed skip delivery date. Applications take time to process, and you need the permit approved before the skip arrives.

Can I place a skip on the road or footpath near my house?

No, not without a permit, as this obstructs public access. Even with a permit, restrictions apply to preserve access and safety. Check with your specific council for rules about road/footpath skip placements.

How do I extend my skip hire permit if needed?

Contact your council to apply for a permit extension and pay any additional fees owed. Keep a skip beyond the approved term by extending your permit, or you risk fines. Most councils allow 1-2 extensions.