Dropped Kerbs & Planning Permission: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

If you’re considering having a dropped kerb installed outside your Buckinghamshire property, you're likely wondering about the legal requirements, costs, and permissions involved. A dropped kerb provides easier access to your driveway, reduces the risk of damage to your vehicle, and can even increase your property's value.

However, ensuring compliance with Buckinghamshire Council regulations is essential to avoid fines or issues down the line. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dropped kerbs, the necessary permissions from Buckinghamshire Council, associated costs, and how P&M Kelly Block Paving can help you through the process in High Wycombe and the surrounding areas.

What is a Dropped Kerb?

Benefits of a Dropped Kerb:

• Convenient Access: Makes driving onto your property smoother and safer.
• Prevents Damage: Avoids scraping your car's underside when entering your driveway.
• Legal Compliance: Ensures you aren’t breaking laws by driving over a public pavement not designed for vehicles.
• Property Value Enhancement: Can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Do You Need Planning Permission for a Dropped Kerb?

In most cases, planning permission is required, but this depends on several factors. Local councils regulate dropped kerbs, and approval must be obtained before work starts. The specific rules can vary by location, so always check with your local authority.



“Installing a dropped kerb without a valid licence from Buckinghamshire Council is illegal and may result in fines or enforcement.”

Permissions Needed for a Dropped Kerb in Buckinghamshire: It's a Two-Step Process

For properties in Buckinghamshire, including High Wycombe, you'll typically need to navigate a two-stage approval process:

• Planning Permission Assessment (Via Planning Department): First, you must determine if formal planning permission is required for your dropped kerb. This is separate from the licence to carry out the work. Buckinghamshire Council's Planning Department will assess this based on factors like your road's classification and property status.
• Vehicular Access Licence (Via Highways Department): Regardless of whether full planning permission is needed, you must obtain a 'Vehicular Access Licence' (sometimes called a 'licence to drop a kerb') from Buckinghamshire Council's Highways Department before any work can begin. You cannot apply for this licence until you have either granted planning permission or a formal letter from the Planning Team confirming planning permission is not required (e.g., a Lawful Development Certificate).

When is Formal Planning Permission Required?

While the Highways Department issues the licence to construct, you might first need planning permission from Buckinghamshire Council's Planning Department if your property:

• Is on a classified road (an A, B, or C road).
• Is a listed building or located within a conservation area.
• Requires work that will significantly impact trees, drainage, or public street furniture (like lamp posts or utility boxes).
• Is in an area with specific parking restrictions or near a bus stop where visibility or access could be compromised.
• It's your responsibility to check with Buckinghamshire Council's Planning Department first. They can advise if full planning permission is necessary for your specific situation.

Buckinghamshire Council Specifics: The Vehicular Access Licence

Once you have your planning status confirmed (either permission granted or confirmation it's not needed), you can apply to Buckinghamshire Council's Highways Department for your Vehicular Access Licence.

You can find detailed guidance and the online application portal on the Buckinghamshire Council website by searching for "apply for a licence to drop a kerb" or visiting: Apply for a Licence to Drop a Kerb Outside Your House

How to Apply for a Buckinghamshire Council Vehicular Access Licence

Applying for this licence typically involves these steps:

  1. Confirm Planning Requirements: As detailed above, get clearance from the Planning Department first.

  2. Prepare Your Application: Most applications are made online via the Buckinghamshire Council website. You will generally need to provide:

• Proof of planning permission OR a letter confirming it's not required.
• A site plan (e.g., 1:200 scale) showing your property boundary and the proposed dropped kerb location.
• Detailed drawings with dimensions of the proposed access (Buckinghamshire Council specifies a maximum standard access width, often around 4.6 metres including tapered kerbs – check current guidance).
• Dimensions of your front garden/parking area to demonstrate sufficient off-street parking space.
• Details of any alterations to boundary walls, fences, or hedges.
• Contractor Details: You must nominate a contractor who meets Buckinghamshire Council's strict criteria (see "Who Can Install a Dropped Kerb?" below). This includes their NRSWA qualifications, £10 million Public Liability Insurance, Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS), statutory utility plans (STATs), and CAT & Gennie certification.
• Application Fee: The current application fee for a Vehicular Access Licence from Buckinghamshire Council is £495.60 (as of early 2025 – always verify the latest fee on the council website).

  3. Council Review & Inspection: A council officer will review your application and may visit your property to assess suitability, safety, and compliance with their policies.

  4. Licence Approval & Work Permit: If your application is accepted, a Vehicular Access Licence is issued. Buckinghamshire Council typically processes complete applications within approximately 4 weeks. The licence usually grants a specific, limited window (e.g., 2 weeks) during which your approved contractor must complete the work.

"All dropped kerb installations in Buckinghamshire must be licensed and carried out by qualified contractors to protect public infrastructure."



Costs of Installing a Dropped Kerb in Buckinghamshire

Installing a dropped kerb involves more than just lowering the pavement; it requires reinforcing the surface to council standards. Costs include:

Estimated Costs (UK)

Additional Costs: If drainage alterations, relocation of street furniture (like a lamp post or sign), or significant groundwork (e.g., tree root removal) are needed, costs can increase. P&M Kelly Block Paving will provide a detailed quote after a site survey.

Who Can Install a Dropped Kerb in Buckinghamshire?

Buckinghamshire Council has strict requirements for contractors undertaking dropped kerb work. You cannot use just any builder. The council mandates that your chosen contractor must:

• Hold New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA) qualifications for both operatives and supervisors.
• Have Public Liability Insurance of at least £10 million.
• Provide a comprehensive Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) for the proposed work.
• Submit statutory undertaker plans (STATs) showing the location of underground services.
• Provide certification for CAT & Gennie (cable avoidance tool) device usage.

Buckinghamshire Council does not maintain a list of "approved" contractors. It is your responsibility to ensure your chosen contractor meets all these criteria.

Why Choose a Properly Qualified Installer like P&M Kelly Block Paving?

• Ensures Work Meets Buckinghamshire Council Regulations: Avoids costly mistakes and potential enforcement action.
• Proper Reinforcement & Construction: The pavement must be correctly constructed to support vehicle weight and meet council specifications.
• Reduces Risk of Fines: Unauthorised or non-compliant work can lead to penalties and orders to reinstate the pavement at your own cost.



At P&M Kelly Block Paving, we confirm that we hold the necessary NRSWA qualifications and the required £10 million Public Liability Insurance, and are experienced in providing all necessary documentation (RAMS, STATs plans) to meet Buckinghamshire Council’s criteria for dropped kerb installations in High Wycombe and the surrounding region.

Common Reasons for Dropped Kerb (Vehicular Access Licence) Applications Being Rejected by Buckinghamshire Council



• Unfortunately, not all applications are approved. Some common reasons include:
• Failure to obtain prior planning permission or confirmation that it's not needed.
• Insufficient driveway/parking space on your property (vehicles must not overhang the public footway). Check Buckinghamshire Council's specific minimum parking space dimensions.
• Proposed access wider than permitted (e.g., Buckinghamshire Council often has a maximum standard width of around 4.6m).
• Poor sightlines for vehicles exiting the driveway, endangering pedestrians or other road users.
• Proximity to obstructions such as trees with preservation orders, lamp posts, utility manholes, or bus stops that cannot be safely relocated or worked around.
• Conflicts with existing parking restrictions (like double yellow lines) or traffic management plans.
• Incomplete application or failure to provide all required documentation from a qualified contractor.

If your application is rejected, Buckinghamshire Council will provide reasons. You may be able to amend your plans and resubmit.

FAQs About Dropped Kerbs & Vehicular Access Licences in Buckinghamshire

Can I Start Work Without a Vehicular Access Licence? 

No. Installing or altering a dropped kerb without the explicit Vehicular Access Licence from Buckinghamshire Council is illegal. This can result in fines and the council requiring you to reinstate the pavement to its original condition at your expense.

Can I Widen an Existing Dropped Kerb? 

Yes, but you’ll still need to apply for a new Vehicular Access Licence from Buckinghamshire Council and meet all the same requirements, including planning permission assessment if applicable.

How Long Does the Permission Process Take? 

First, determining if you need planning permission and obtaining it (if required) can take 6-8 weeks or longer. Once you have that sorted, the Buckinghamshire Council Vehicular Access Licence application typically takes around 4 weeks to process, provided all necessary documentation is submitted correctly. The installation itself is usually completed within 2-4 days once the licence is granted and the work window is active.

What Happens if My Licence Application is Denied? 

Buckinghamshire Council will inform you of the reasons. You may be able to appeal (if applicable) or modify your application based on their feedback and resubmit.

Why Choose P&M Kelly Block Paving for Your Dropped Kerb Installation in Buckinghamshire?

At P&M Kelly Block Paving, we specialise in dropped kerb installations that comply fully with Buckinghamshire Council's guidelines. Our experienced team ensures every project meets safety and construction regulations, preventing potential fines or compliance issues.

Benefits of Working With Us:

• Qualified & Compliant: We hold the necessary NRSWA accreditations and £10 million Public Liability Insurance, as required by Buckinghamshire Council.
• Free Consultation & Quote: We help you understand costs and assess the feasibility for your High Wycombe area property.
• Expert Workmanship: We use high-quality materials and our installers are experienced in meeting council specifications.
• Hassle-Free Process: We can guide you on the requirements and provide all necessary contractor documentation for your Buckinghamshire Council licence application.
• Guaranteed Satisfaction: We handle the construction phase efficiently and professionally, from preparation to final installation.

Conclusion

“Dropped kerbs make vehicle access safer and add value to your property, provided they’re installed to council standards.”

Installing a dropped kerb improves accessibility to your property, can enhance its value, and ensures you remain legally compliant when driving onto your driveway. However, for residents in High Wycombe and the wider Buckinghamshire area, it's crucial to follow Buckinghamshire Council's specific two-stage process: first, addressing any planning permission requirements, and then obtaining a Vehicular Access Licence.

With the right guidance and a professionally qualified installer, the process can be managed effectively.

At P&M Kelly Block Paving, we offer expert dropped kerb installation across High Wycombe and surrounding areas in Buckinghamshire. Get in touch today for a free consultation and quote!