If you don’t have a driveway, you might be wondering whether it’s still possible to hire a skip. The short answer is yes, but there are a few important things to know before you book. In the UK, placing a skip on public land, such as a road or pavement, requires a skip permit from your local council. It’s a legal requirement and something you can’t ignore.
What Is a Skip Hire Permit and Why Is It Required?
A skip hire permit is an official license from your local council that gives permission for a skip to be placed on a public road, pavement or verge. These permits are designed to ensure safety for both pedestrians and vehicles, and to prevent obstruction in high-traffic areas. If a skip is placed on public land without a valid permit, the skip user (not just the skip hire company) can be fined.
The requirement applies across all of the UK. Even if your street is quiet or not heavily used, you still need permission. Some councils may also have additional rules, such as restricting how long a skip can stay in place, requiring traffic cones or reflective markings, or only allowing skips at certain times.
Can AMA Skip Hire Arrange the Permit?
Yes, we can. In fact, many of our customers prefer us to handle the permit application on their behalf. It’s usually a straightforward process, and we’ll include the cost of the permit in your quote if you let us know the skip will need to go on public land.
Permit costs vary depending on your local authority, but they generally range from £30 to £70. We charge a small additional fee to cover the admin, and we make sure the application is submitted correctly and on time. This means you don’t have to worry about paperwork or delays.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Skip Permit?
Most councils require at least 1 to 3 working days’ notice for a skip permit, although some may take longer. If you’re thinking about hiring a skip but don’t have a driveway, it’s best to plan a few days in advance to ensure everything is in place when your skip is due to arrive.
We’ll advise you on the likely turnaround time based on your postcode, and we’ll let you know if there are any specific local restrictions you need to be aware of.
Are There Any Alternatives to a Road Placement?
If you don’t have a driveway and can’t wait for a permit, there may still be options. Some customers arrange with a neighbour to place the skip on shared land or in a front garden. Others consider using a smaller skip that fits in tighter spaces, or book a man-and-van waste collection as an alternative.
If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to talk through your options based on your property and location. We’ve helped thousands of customers with tricky access or limited space find a practical solution.
Book Your Skip Today – With or Without a Driveway
At AMA Skip Hire, we make skip hire simple — whether you have a driveway or not. If your skip needs to be placed on the road or pavement, we’ll handle the permit process quickly and professionally so you stay compliant with local laws. No stress, no delays, no fines.
Get in touch with our team today for a tailored quote that includes everything you need — skip, delivery, collection, and permit if required.
