Apply for a dropped kerb or access point
A dropped kerb is when the pavement between the road and your driveway is strengthened and the kerb is lowered to allow vehicles to cross it without causing any damage. An access point is where you access your property from the road.
Before you get a dropped kerb installed by a contractor or start using a new access point, you need to get our permission. We need to make sure it won't introduce any risks to other road users or damage any part of the road or pavement.
Get permission
Follow the process below to get permission for a single dropped kerb or access point for your home.
If you're a developer, find out how to apply for a dropped kerb or access point as a developer.
Cost
The application costs £389, but there may be additional inspection charges if you want a new access point or a dropped kerb installed near a tree or street light. Additional inspections cost £60 each and are non-refundable. For more information, read the application guidance (PDF, 666.1 KB).
If we decline your application, you will get a refund of £180.
Apply
Before you apply for permission, read the application guidance (PDF, 666.1 KB).
You'll also need:
- a copy of your planning permission or written confirmation that you do not need planning permission from your local district or borough council
- written permission from the home owner if you do not own the property
- a photograph taken in front of the property, showing neighbouring properties that may be affected
- a sketch of where you plan to introduce the access point, or have the dropped kerb installed (full details of what to include are in the application guidance (PDF, 666.1 KB))
- a debit or credit card to pay the application fee.
If you'd like to save your progress, make sure you create an account or log in to your account before starting your application.
Decision
We aim to inspect your property and give you a decision within 28 days of receiving your application and payment.
If we approve your application, you will have 2 years from the date of the Approval Notice to get your dropped kerb installed. If the work is not completed within this time, you'll need to reapply.
If we decline your application, we will clearly set out the reasons why it has been refused. If you don't think we've applied the criteria correctly, you can ask us to review the decision by making a complaint.
Find a contractor
Once you have been granted permission, you can employ any contractor to install your dropped kerb as long as they hold:
- New Roads and Street Works Act accreditations for excavation and reinstatement
- £5 million public liability insurance.
Contractors' prices can vary from £1,000 to £2,500.
Find a contractor on the Trading Standards Checked website
Additional costs
If we need to make changes to the road or pavement to make your dropped kerb or access point safe, you will also need to pay for that work. Additional costs could include:
- moving a street lighting column
- moving a traffic sign and post
- getting a traffic regulation order to change a parking bay
- third party alteration costs.