How Skip Permits Work in Tower Hamlets

• The skip hire company (or operator) must apply for the skip licence/permit for placing the skip on the public highway.
• As the person arranging the skip, you should ensure you choose a reputable licensed skip-hire operator and confirm that the licence has been approved before delivery.

• According to Tower Hamlets’ guidance: a skip licence can be approved for up to 28 days (assuming full payment and correct application).
• The Council requires 7 working days’ notice for any skip licence application to allow inspection, parking bay suspension coordination, resident notification etc.

Although prices may vary, Tower Hamlets fees generally include:

• A fixed fee per permit
• Extra charges if:
  • You need an extension
  • You want to place the skip in a controlled parking zone (CPZ)
  • Special traffic management is needed

Skip companies usually include these costs in your overall hire fee.

All prices exclude VAT

• If the skip is placed on the public highway/roadway in Tower Hamlets, a skip licence is required.
• If the skip is placed entirely on private land (driveway, garden, private site) then a skip licence is not required from the Council.
• If the skip occupies a parking bay or is in a controlled parking zone (CPZ), then a parking bay suspension must also be arranged by the skip operator.

• The skip hire operator must ensure safe siting of the skip, especially when on the public highway: not blocking pedestrian walkways, traffic lanes or visibility. (General highway law expectation)
• For Tower Hamlets, because notice and inspection are required, skip placement must meet the Council’s standards for highway safety.
• You should check that the operator will provide correct markings, lighting if required at night, and ensure the skip is maintained and collected before the licence period ends.

• If a skip is placed on the public highway without a valid licence and/or required parking suspension in Tower Hamlets, the Council can take enforcement action such as removal of the skip or other penalty charges. (While specific penalty amounts are not clearly listed, the non-refundable fee and deadline notice emphasise strict compliance)
• Because full payment is required in advance, non-compliance may also mean losing the fee or facing extra costs for over-stay.

• Tower Hamlets requires at least 7 working days’ notice before you place the skip, to allow inspection and processing.
• To be safe: engage the skip hire operator early, provide all required documentation (insurance, risk assessment if needed), and allow extra time if parking bay suspension is involved.

1. You book a skip with a licensed skip-hire company operating in Tower Hamlets.
2. Inform them that the skip will be placed on the public highway (if that is the case).
3. The skip hire company:
   • Applies to Tower Hamlets Council for the skip licence/permit
   • If needed, arranges parking bay suspension with the Council
   • Pays the required licence fee in full in advance
   • Waits for approval/licence to be issued
4. Once approved, the skip is delivered to the correct location.
5. You fill the skip, ensuring compliance with operator’s terms and the licence conditions.
6. The skip hire company collects the skip before the licence period expires (or arranges renewal if needed).

Tower Hamlets Council – How Skip Permits Work ?

Skip Hire in Tower Hamlets | Book Online Today | Proskips