The type of licence / permit you require to display removable furniture on public highways or pavements will depend on where in the U.K. your premises is located. Lockett & Co have successfully applied for Pavement Licences, Street Café Licences, and Section 59 Street Café / Tables and Chairs Permits for both large PLC companies and small individual retailers throughout the U.K.

Pavement Licence Applications (England) – A temporary measure introduced under the Business and Planning Act 2020, and made permanent by the the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023, Pavement Licence Applications can be submitted to put removable furniture (such as tables, chairs, barriers and other temporary/removable furniture) on the public highway or pavement. This type of application is much quicker than the previous method of applying under the Highways Act 1980. Fees set by Councils are now capped and Pavement Licences can be issued for up to 2 years (although some Councils may grant them for a shorter period of time, such as 6 months or 1 year). A Pavement Licence does not negate the need for any other types of licences (such as a Premises Licence) or other types of approvals (such as planning) where necessary.

Pavement Licence Renewals (England) – If your business already has a valid Pavement Licence, it may be eligible for a renewal application. Renewals can be processed before the expiry of the existing Pavement Licence. Renewals are valid for a period up to 2 years and in most cases are less expensive than applying for a new Pavement Licence.

Pavement / Street Café Licences (Wales) – If your business is looking to put tables, chairs or other temporary furniture on the public highway or pavement in Wales, you may require a licence. Each Council in Wales is responsible for administering their own licences. Licences are granted under the Highways Act 1980. Furniture must be temporary / removable.

Street Café / Tables and Chairs Permit (Scotland) – In Scotland, to operate an outdoor seating area you need to apply for a Section 59 (road-occupation consent) permit under the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984. Applications are specific by Council. Some Councils have specific time restrictions, require Wind Management Plans, set their own fees and apply their own sets of conditions. As of 31 March 2023, hospitality businesses no longer require planning permission before applying for a Section 59 permit to place removable furniture on pavements. Renewals of these permits are typically every 12 months, but may vary by Council.