Dropped kerbs in East Lothian Council: fee, who builds it and how to apply
Everything you need to apply for a dropped kerb (vehicle crossing) with East Lothian Council, from the council's own website. Last checked 4 October 2026.
Who builds dropped kerbs in East Lothian?
To drop a kerb in East Lothian you need the council's consent as Roads Authority, through a Road Excavation Permit. Applications are only accepted from the contractor doing the works, with NRSWA accreditation certificates for the works supervisor and operative and current public liability insurance.
Scotland has its own rules. Under section 56 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984, no works can be carried out in a public road without the roads authority's written consent, so East Lothian gives permission as the roads authority (often called a road opening permit or dropped kerb permit). England's Highways Act and planning rules don't apply in Scotland: ask East Lothian's planning team whether your driveway or access needs planning permission.
How much does a dropped kerb cost in East Lothian?
Homeowner application fee: Not published. East Lothian recovers site inspection costs by a charge paid when the permit is issued (section 140, Roads (Scotland) Act 1984), but doesn't publish the amount.
Building it: East Lothian doesn't publish a typical construction price. Councils that do publish prices quote roughly £1,000 to £3,500 for a standard crossing.
Estimate your total for East Lothian with the calculator
Contractor requirements in East Lothian
- Applies for the Road Excavation Permit itself
- NRSWA accreditation for works supervisor and operative
- Current public liability insurance
How to check street works cards and insurance before you hire: our guide to dropped kerb contractors.
How to apply in East Lothian
- Check whether you need planning permission (classified road, listed building, flat or commercial premises, or change of use), so check with Planning Reception.
- Your contractor completes the council's permit application with drawings, photos, accreditation and insurance.
- Permits are usually issued within 4-6 weeks, with conditions and specifications.
How long it takes
- Permits usually issued within 4-6 weeks.
Size and siting rules
- Driveway 6m long (5m absolute minimum).
- First 2 metres of the driveway surfaced with bound material; gates must open inwards.
Ready to apply in East Lothian?
Check your property qualifies and have everything ready, then apply on the council's own website.
East Lothian: Drop kerbs Eligibility checker Printable checklist
Nearby councils
- Midlothian Council: £137 total council fees, any qualified contractor
- Scottish Borders Council: £371 total council fees, council's own list only
- City of Edinburgh Council: £210 total council fees, any qualified contractor
Dropped kerb guides
Sources (official, checked 4 October 2026)