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Display and Advertising Board Placement

Conditions of registration

Goods and signs on footways can add color but might block pavements and cause hazards.

The Council wants to manage items on footways and pedestrian areas fairly. Safety and convenience for pedestrians come first.

The policy includes guidelines for handling obstructions on footways:

  • Businesses need at least £2 million in public liability insurance. They must respect public health and safety and maintain good housekeeping.
  • Goods on footways need the authority’s approval. They should not extend more than 1 metre from the shop front and must stay within the shop’s width
  • Displayed goods must have barriers at the ends for clear marking.
  • There must be a clear width of passage on the footway for pedestrians of 2 metres.
  • Items must not force pedestrians onto the road.
  • The visibility of motorists or pedestrians is not interfered with.
  • In pedestrian areas, there must be a 4-metre wide path for emergency vehicles.

For additional guidance and information, please visit our Obstructions on the highway pages.

Cost of permit

There is currently no fee for placing displays and advertising boards on the highway.

Processing time

Applications are typically processed within 28 days.

Tacit consent

Yes. If you don’t hear back within 28 days, your application is approved

Appeals procedure

There is no appeal procedure. If you have any queries about any decisions, please contact the streetworks department.

Apply for a permit

No permit is needed for displays and advertising boards on the highway.

Approval for signs on footways is at the authority’s discretion.

Letters of interest should be sent to the streetworks department or you can contact us direct to discuss your proposals.

Contact details

Directions to SA11 2GG
Streetworks Department
The Quays Brunel Way,
Briton Ferry Neath
SA11 2GG pref
(01639) 686338 (01639) 686338 voice +441639686338