Street café licence

The Highways Act 1980, Section 115, lets the Council give licenses for street cafes. This includes setting up and running refreshment spots on the highway.

The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982} updated this section.

For more details, download the documents below

Street cafes add to the colour and atmosphere of towns in the County Borough. The Council is keen to encourage that where they are set up they are of good quality and properly designed. The council will judge each application for a licence by considering factors such as:

• whether or not the location is in a pedestrianised area
• the volume of both pedestrian and vehicular traffic at the location
• the available pavement width
• existing street furniture in the vicinity
• the need to ensure unimpeded passage for pedestrians 
• access at all times for emergency services

A business must have a minimum of £2 million Public Liability Insurance. They must also respect public health and safety, and show good housekeeping

Check the Street Café Guidelines for complete details on applying for a license and setting up the area.

Street café licences are valid for 12 months. If you wish to extend the licence after the initial 12 months period you must apply for a new licence.

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

Application forms are available in the following formats:-

• Download a street cafe application form.

• Pre - printed application forms are also available by post.

Application forms must be completed in full and returned to the Streetworks Department.