Crane licence

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Please note - due to unexpected staff shortages, applications may take longer to process. Applications will be processed as quickly as possible. Please allow an extra 3-5 working days on top of our current application times and avoid sending multiple email chases as this will cause longer delays.

What is a Crane licence?

  • You will need a Crane licence to place a crane or a cherry picker on a public highway.

If you need to place the crane on private land you will not need a licence. You can hire the use of cranes or cherry pickers from crane operating companies.

The crane operating company is responsible for having the relevant licence. A site visit is required by the council before any licences are granted.

A road closure may be required in certain instances. Please note that there is a six to eight week lead time in arranging a road closure.

Applying for a Crane licence

To apply for a Crane licence you need to:

Download an application

What happens next?

  • We will contact you about how you can complete your payment once we receive your application.

Crane licence fees

The current (2024/2025) fees for a Crane licence are:

  • £315.20 - Positioning and lifting the equipment on the highway (where applicable).
  • £695.20 - deposit required.
  • £347.30 - Over sail licence.

Terms and conditions

View the Crane Licence terms and conditions