Drop Kerbs: Everything You Need to Know Before Applying

What is a Dropped Kerb?

A dropped kerb — officially called a vehicle crossover — is a section of lowered kerb that allows a vehicle to safely cross the pavement from the road onto a private driveway. If you want to park on your own property, you legally need a dropped kerb where your driveway meets the public highway.

Parking across an un-dropped kerb — even at your own house — is technically illegal and can result in a fixed penalty notice.

Do You Need Permission?

Yes. Installing a dropped kerb on an adopted public highway requires permission from the local highways authority (usually the county council or unitary authority). This is separate from planning permission and is required regardless of whether the driveway itself needs consent.

In most cases the application is straightforward — but the council must inspect the site and approve the location before any work begins. Never instruct a contractor to cut a kerb without approval in place first.

How the Application Process Works

The process varies slightly by council but typically follows these steps:

• Step 1 — Apply to the highways authority. Most councils have an online application form. You'll need to describe the location and purpose of the crossover.
• Step 2 — Site inspection. A highways officer will visit to check sightlines, footway width, and whether the location is suitable. They'll check there are no underground utilities or street furniture in the way.
• Step 3 — Approval (or conditions). The council will either approve, request changes, or decline. Most straightforward residential applications are approved.
• Step 4 — The works. In some areas the council carries out the kerb work themselves and you pay for it. In others, you hire an approved contractor. Either way, the kerb work on the public highway must be done by someone authorised by the highways authority.

How Long Does It Take?

Timescales vary considerably by council — some process applications within a few weeks; others take several months, especially in busy periods. It's worth applying as early as possible if you have a planned start date for your driveway. We always advise getting the dropped kerb application in before booking the driveway installation.

What Will the Council Refuse?

Not all locations are suitable. Common reasons for refusal include:

• The proposed crossing is too close to a junction, traffic lights or pedestrian crossing
• The footway is too narrow to allow a safe crossing
• There are trees, utility access covers or other obstructions that can't be moved
• The sight lines from the access are inadequate for safe vehicle use

If you're unsure whether your property is suitable, we can advise during a free site visit — we complete many dropped kerb applications and know what councils typically approve in the Bristol, Gloucester and Cardiff areas.

Can You Do It Without Permission?

No. Installing a dropped kerb without permission is an offence under the Highways Act 1980. The council can require you to reinstate the original kerb at your own expense, and you could face a fine. It's not worth the risk — the application process exists to protect road safety and pedestrian access.

We Handle the Application for You

As part of any driveway project that includes a new dropped kerb, we manage the highways application on your behalf, liaise with the council, and coordinate the kerb work alongside the driveway installation so everything is done in the right sequence. Get in touch for a free quote and we'll walk you through the full process.