After helping thousands of customers with skip hire across the South East, we know that permit confusion causes more headaches than anything else.
The most crucial takeaway is this: a permit is always required if the skip touches council land (a public road, pavement, or verge), but never required on private property (a driveway or garden).
Processing time for a skip permit typically takes 2 to 5 working days (24–72 hours is common in many districts).
This period is set by your local council, not the skip provider, and cannot be fast-tracked for free. We strongly recommend booking your skip and applying for the permit at least 5 working days in advance to avoid project delays or the need for expensive fast-track fees.
You must obtain a valid Skip Permit if your skip is placed on:
| PERMIT REQUIRED | PERMIT NOT NEEDED |
|---|---|
|
Public Road / Highway (Any council-maintained roadway) |
Private Driveway (Must be fully contained within your property boundary) |
|
Pavements / Footpaths (Including partial pavement placements) |
Gardens / Backyards (With clear vehicle access) |
|
Grass Verges (Council-owned land beside roads) |
Construction Sites (Fully private land with no public access) |
|
Parking Bays / Yellow Lines (Requires a permit and possibly a separate suspension) |
_ |
While the general rule (road = permit) is universal, specific regulations regarding traffic management, lighting, and duration vary by local authority.
|
Council
|
Fee
|
Period
|
Processing notes
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
£37
|
7 days
|
Renewals £37/week; RORO £142 first week.
|
|
|
£44 (7 days) / £81 (28 days)
|
7 or 28 days
|
Requires 3 days’ notice.
|
|
|
Fees are higher £87 per month
|
14 days
|
2 working days to process; new application for extensions.
|
|
|
£87
|
1 month
|
Parking suspension/dispensation may be extra.
|
|
|
£134
|
up to 28 days
|
Issued within ~2 working days when complete.
|
|
|
£70
|
14 days
|
Medway is generally efficient, often processing applications within 2 days. This is our local focus area.
|
|
|
£41–£43 per week
|
7 days
|
Kent operates via a county schedule, but many districts (Maidstone, Gravesham) set their own specific rules. Always verify the district.
|
Last checked: Aug 2025. Councils can change fees without notice.
Pro tip from our team: Always book your skip at least 5 working days before you need it. Last summer, we had a customer in Bristol who needed their skip on a Monday but only called us on Friday afternoon – we managed to get emergency approval, but it cost them an extra £40 in fast-track fees.
✔ No council hassle ✔ No application errors ✔ Full compliance ✔ No hidden fees
Need a skip with permit included? 0800 260 5989 or book online.
We'll help choose the best spot that meets council rules and minimizes disruption.
Same-day submission to the council with all required documents.
Receive email/SMS updates, including approval and permit details.
Our team delivers your skip with all required safety markings and lighting.
If your skip must be placed in a designated parking bay or restricted zone, we will apply for the necessary suspension or dispensation on your behalf. However, the council’s suspension fee will be added to your total cost, as it is separate from the standard permit fee.
