Temporary advertising boards (A-boards)

Do I need an A-board?

A-boards can create an obstruction and be nuisance for pedestrians. There are lots of other 'off highway' advertising methods you should consider instead of an A-board.

Fixed wall boards, mounted display boxes, window displays, hanging signs and changeable cloth signs are all examples of alternative advertising (PDF, 1.5Mb). Please note, you may still require planning permission from your borough or district council.

Do I need a licence to use an A-board?

Kent County Council no longer grant permission for A-boards and there is no licence to apply for.

If you own a business and want to place an A-board on the pavement outside your property, planning permission may be required. Please contact your local borough or district council planning authority for further information.

You must do this before you start using the A-board.

Are you A-board aware?

When using an A-board you are responsible for complying with Kent County Council's A-board requirements. The requirements exist to protect all highway users, including those with mobility and visual impairments. Action will be taken to remove unauthorised problem items or items that cause an obstruction.

From November 2011, businesses that sign up to comply with the requirements will be given a window sticker to display. The sticker recognises your commitment to public safety and awareness of the issues that A-boards can present to highway users.

To get your window sticker email roadworks.licensing@kent.gov.uk or write to:

KCC Highways and Transportation – Roadworks Teams
Invicta House
County Hall
Maidstone
Kent. ME14 1XX

Please include: