A Boards, Trade Displays and Pavement Cafe Permits

Information about permits for advertising boards, trade displays and pavement cafes on the Public Highway.

Why do I need a licence?

Solihull Council recognises that many businesses seek to create displays in order to boost their trade. The displays typically consist of the following main types:

• Trade displays - items such as cut flowers, fruit and vegetables, clothing or other wares
• Pavement cafes - areas for consumption of food & drink and usually consisting of tables and chairs
• Self-standing 'A' board type signs - boards used for advertising goods and services offered by the business

In order to place any of the above items on the Public Highway it is necessary to have a valid licence.

How can I apply for a licence?

For ‘A’ Boards and Trade Displays, businesses will need to complete and return the attached application form, together with a cheque for the respective amount. Applications will be considered and decided within eight weeks, to include the 28 day consultation period with the frontages either side of the premises. If granted, the licence will be issued and must be displayed in the window of the applicant.

For Pavement Cafés a planning application will need to be submitted to Solihull Council and approved before completing and returning the attached form. A detailed scaled drawing of the proposed area will need to be included with the form so that the cost of the licence can be verified, together with a cheque for the respective amount. Applications will be considered and decided within eight weeks, to include a 28 day consultation period.

For licence renewals no consultation period is required although applicants should still allow up to 28 days for the licence to be granted.

How much does a licence cost?

From 1st April 2013 the following charges will apply (no VAT payable):

• Trade displays £200.00
• Pavement cafes £24.50 per m2, with a minimum charge of £200.00
• 'A' boards £150.00