Where Can I Put a Skip?

You are looking to hire a skip, but before it arrives, you need to decide where to put it. In this guide, we discuss all the questions that may arise about where you can place a skip.

Can a Skip be Placed on Public Land?

Skips can be placed on public land; however, a skip permit will need to be acquired before the skip arrives. Skip permits are obtained from the local council, and they can be applied for by your skip hire company. Most councils take up to 5 working days to decide whether to grant the permit, but the waiting time can vary. The skip permit will incur an additional fee, and permit prices differ from county to county.

At Just Hire, we can organise your skip permit when you hire a skip through us. 

Can a Skip be Placed on a Public Road?

Skips can be placed on public highways, but again, a skip permit from the local council is required. If the skip is placed on a public highway, additional rules may apply. Some councils require lighting, cones, and a telephone number to be placed on and around the skip to ensure it remains visible during the evening.

Councils can reject skip permits depending on the proposed location, such as a position that could reduce the highway width, limit visibility for drivers, impact parking, cause issues with property access, or endanger road users. Additionally, in most cases, an 8-yard skip is the largest size that can be placed on a public highway.

How Long Can a Skip be Left on the Road?

A skip can be left on a road for the duration specified in the skip permit issued by the local council. A skip permit typically lasts one or two weeks, but this can vary by council. Always check with the skip company regarding how long the skip can be kept on the road. Most companies will have a standard hire period, so the skip will usually be collected when that period elapses.

What about a Private Road or Private Land?

If a skip is placed on any private property, and you own the property or have permission from the owner, no permit is required.

Can a Skip be Put on a Pavement?

Regardless of whether you have a skip permit, skips cannot be placed on a pavement. This would affect pedestrians and block access for those pushing prams or using wheelchairs. If you place a skip on a public pathway, you will receive a fine from your local authority, as it is against regulations.

What is the Ideal Skip Placement?

The ideal location for a skip is on a driveway. You won't need a permit, which will reduce the overall cost of your skip hire. It will also provide easy access for filling the skip and avoid any risk from passing traffic.

Just make sure there is enough space on the driveway for the size of the skip you have ordered. While this may affect your parking, it is a much more cost-effective and efficient option.

Can a Skip be Dropped Over a Fence?

This depends on the skip hire company and the skip lorries they use. In most cases, companies will be able to drop a skip over a fence that is up to 4 feet high. You will likely need to sign a waiver in case any damage occurs during delivery. If you have a fence, contact the skip hire company first to discuss the specific placement.