Information:
From 10 March 2025, we will only accept the online version of our Section 50 form. We still require a Road Space Booking form (word document) to be submitted with each section 50 application. You will receive this form in an email after submitting your online application.
You need a licence before you place apparatus on the highway, working on existing licensed apparatus and excavating the highway.
If you're not familiar with the requirements of the legislation, we strongly advise that you appoint a contractor or consultant with appropriate knowledge and accreditation, to help complete the application and to conduct the works on your behalf.
Under no circumstances should contractors conduct works without a licence.
Timescales / When to apply for the licence?
All completed applications should be submitted to the Highways Section 50 team at least 4 weeks in advance of the proposed work dates for both:
- minor works (up to three days), or
- standard works (up to 10 days), without major traffic management involvement to ensure the best likelihood of securing the dates.
In the event that an application is for major utility works (up to 3 months), the applicant / contractor is advised to submit all the required documentation at least 3 months prior to the proposed work dates.
Apply for street works licence
Steps to apply:
- Complete a Section 50.
- Complete a Road space booking form (NRSWA) (DOC 36KB) and email it to HighwaysSection50@hertfordshire.gov.uk
- Use the payment link provided in the Section 50 confirmation email to pay for your licence.
Additional documentation that will be required for the application include:
- Traffic Management plan, here's an example plan (PDF 153KB)
- Site plan - Satellite map screengrab or image taken with a smartphone
- Public liability insurance - We require at least £10 million from both the applicant and the company conducting the works if they are different entities. If the applicant and the company conducting the works are the same, only one set of public liability insurance of £10 million is required.
- SWQR cards (at least 1 operative and 1 supervisor) both containing hot and cold lay (Front and back card copies)
- Section 106 Approval Letter - Water Industry Act 1991 (If you are placing new apparatus on the highway or conducting work on existing licenced apparatus in the highway, we will need to see permission to connect.)
- Adoption Confirmation Section 104 Agreement (Water Industry Act 1991) - If you are working on a surface, sewer or storm connection which is to be adopted by the relevant authority, please attach proof of the Section 104 agreement in principle. If the apparatus is to remain under private ownership after installation, you are required to show proof of ongoing ownership and contact details.
If we do not have the required documentation, your application may be delayed or cancelled.
Payment and penalty notice
It costs £849.00 for a licence.
You will be provided with a payment link in the email you receive once you have submitted the section 50 form. To prevent delays to your application, we recommend paying as soon as possible. If you are having difficulties with the payment link, you can pay via phone or BACS.
Contact us
If a contractor has any questions relating to Section 50 licence process, please contact HighwaysSection50@hertfordshire.gov.uk.