Dropped Kerbs and Crossovers

What you need to do

If you need vehicle or wheelchair access onto your property, you must make a formal application for a dropped kerb to Hertfordshire County Council (HCC), who are the Highways Authority.

If your plans affect things like grass verges, trees, or public paths, you'll need to check with HCC first. It's a good idea to talk to them early, as it could save you time and money.

Cost

Hertfordshire County Council will tell you how much it costs to apply for a dropped kerb. You can call them at 0300 1234 047. Whether you get permission or not, you will have to pay for the work

Planning permission

You may need planning permission, which helps keep roads safe. The type of road you live on (A, B, or C class) decides if you need it. You can find your road’s type on the "Find My Street" website or by calling 0300 1234 047.

Unclassified roads

You might need planning permission if:

• Your driveway crosses a grassy area.
• You plan to pave more than 5 square meters with materials that don't let water through.
• You need to change the ground level or build something new.
• Your home is a listed building, in a conservation area, or is subject to an Article 4 Direction.
• You affect a tree with a Tree Preservation Order.
• You live in a flat or use your building for business or community purposes.
• There are other rules or developments on the property.

What to check

Make sure your proposal follows the rules in the Hertfordshire County Council Dropped Kerbs Policy. If you want to know if your property is a listed building, in a conservation area, or is subject to an Article 4 Direction, you can email the planning team at plan.devcon@stevenage.gov.uk or call 01438 242242.

To check if you need planning permission or if a tree is protected, please visit the Pre-application and Enquiry page.

Things to avoid

Don’t build a dropped kerb without permission. HCC might make you remove it if you don’t follow the rules. Even on unclassified roads, you might still need permission, so it's best to check through the Enquiry Service.

How to apply

Apply for planning permission online if you need it.

Once you're ready, apply to Hertfordshire County Council for the dropped kerb.