You do not need to tell the council if you want to place an 'A' board or shop front display on the street. This excludes pavement cafes.
Whilst consent from the council’s Highways department may not be required, consent under other areas of legislation (the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 for example) may still be required.
'A' boards, shop front displays and other items on the street will be inspected regularly. This is to make sure they are safe and fit for purpose.
The 'A' board, object or display must relate to the trade of the business. It must be placed next to the front of the premises and should be fit for purpose. It should not cause any potential danger, nuisance or obstruction.
'A' boards giving directions are not permitted away from the premises.
The council may remove any ‘A’ boards, objects or displays that are causing danger. They can also be removed if the owner has not fixed a problem which the council has told them about.
Fees
There is no charge for having an 'A' boards or shop front display.
Public Liability Insurance
It is advised that Public Liability Insurance cover for £5million is held by the owner. Any accident or claim will be covered by the owner’s insurance and liability will not attach to the council.
Limits to the amount of pavement you can use
'A' boards and shop front displays need to be in proportion to the size of the premises. They should not block the pavement in any way that prevents safe passage.
Planning permission
You should check if planning permission is required in each circumstance.
'A' boards or shop front displays on private property
The above criteria would not normally apply, as it is not classed as a public street. However, other restrictions may apply. You should check if planning permission is required.
Report a problem
You can report a problem with shop front displays or signs blocking pavements.