Small scale activities on the Highway

1 What you need to know

If you are planning an activity on a highway or pavement in West Sussex, including city centres, you need to let us know.

Important information before you apply

Anything that is likely to impact the public using a highway or pavement must be approved and suitably insured.

If you are planning to sell goods or services, fundraise, collect donations or make direct debit arrangements, you must apply through your local district or borough council in the first instance.

If your activity requires a temporary road closure, visit our Event road closures page.

To carry out small, pre-planned activities such as an information or promotional activity, entertainment or performances, follow our step-by-step guide:

1. Read the terms and conditions
2. Check if there is anything planned in the area that may impact your activity by visiting the one.network website, which provides up to date information on roadworks in your area.
3. Obtain public liability insurance of at least £10,000,000 to cover any risks associated with your activity.
4. Where appropriate ensure you have relevant street trading, alcohol licensing or street collection permits in place which are issued by your district or borough council.

Important notice

WSCC do not issue licences for busking. Check information on your district or borough council website to see if you need a busking licence or permit.

2 Apply for a licence

Please read the terms and conditions before completing the application form.

Online application form (external link)

Applications take 10 days to be processed. Once your application has been approved we will send you a letter confirming the date and time of your event booking.

You must include a copy of your public liability insurance with your application.

You can also request an application form by phoning us on 01243 777100. 

3 Terms and conditions

1. Where appropriate you have ensured that you have the relevant street trading, alcohol licensing or street collection permits in place which are issued by your district or borough council.
2. The pre-planned activity shall be adequately marshalled if applicable. Please include details of marshalling arrangements with the application.
3. You have public liability insurance of at least £10,000,000 to cover any risks associated with your activity.
4. The pre-planned activity shall be carried out to cause no risk to any member of the public or property.
5. No member of the public shall be unreasonably interrupted in their use of the highway or pavement.
6. The county council shall be indemnified against any actions, proceedings, claims, damages and liabilities which may be taken, made or incurred, consequent upon, or arising from the pre-planned activity.
7. A stand, stall or similar structure may not exceed 3m x 3m x 3m and may only be placed on the highway or pavement at the agreed location. All structures must be secured appropriately so as not to cause a risk to the public.
8. No motor vehicle shall be allowed to enter precinct areas without prior permission.
9. Applicants must be over 18.