Dropped kerbs in The Highland Council: fee, who builds it and how to apply
Everything you need to apply for a dropped kerb (vehicle crossing) with The Highland Council, from the council's own website. Last checked 4 October 2026.
Who builds dropped kerbs in Highland?
Highland's guidance for accesses to private houses from public roads says you need a road opening permit. You must hire a qualified contractor with certification to work on public roads (HAUC-accredited under the 1991 Act, with £5 million public liability insurance) and submit their insurance and Street Works Licence card.
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 Highland 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 Highland's planning team whether your driveway or access needs planning permission.
How much does a dropped kerb cost in Highland?
Homeowner application fee: £187. Road opening permit for minor works, including the inspection fee, paid through the online application.
Total council fees: £187 (construction not included).
Building it: Highland 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 Highland with the calculator
Contractor requirements in Highland
- HAUC-accredited under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991
- Public liability insurance of £5 million
- Qualified supervisor available and trained operative on site
- Follows Highland's standard specifications and Chapter 8 signing
How to check street works cards and insurance before you hire: our guide to dropped kerb contractors.
How to apply in Highland
- Get any planning permission you need and read Highland's access guidance.
- Check for apparatus with Dial Before You Dig.
- Apply for a road opening permit at least 28 days before the start, with drawings, your contractor's Street Works Licence card and insurance, and pay £187.
- Work only on the dates shown on the permit and tell the council the actual start and end dates.
How long it takes
- Apply at least 28 days before the intended start date.
Ready to apply in Highland?
Check your property qualifies and have everything ready, then apply on the council's own website.
Highland: Road opening permit Eligibility checker Printable checklist
Nearby councils
- Moray Council: £195 total council fees, any qualified contractor
- Aberdeenshire Council: £152.85 total council fees, any qualified contractor
- Argyll and Bute Council: £191 total council fees, any qualified contractor
- Perth & Kinross Council: £371 total council fees, any qualified contractor