Please note: this is a summary of Suffolk County Council's published guidance, checked in October 2026. Rules and fees can change, so always check the council's official dropped kerb page before applying.
When is permission needed?
Suffolk County Council says you legally need its permission to work on the publicly maintained highway for:
- a new dropped kerb or vehicle access
- extending or changing an existing dropped kerb or vehicle access
- working on the footway (pavement), road, verge or a public right of way
The council's process is for accesses serving one or two homes. Larger developments and commercial sites follow a different process.
Step 1: Check the criteria
The council publishes criteria for dropped kerb accesses (PDF). Applications are assessed against these, and the council is clear that not every property can have a dropped kerb, even if neighbouring properties have one. If your situation may not meet the criteria, the council offers paid pre-application advice.
Step 2: Check whether you need planning permission
According to the council, you'll need planning permission from your local district or borough council before applying if the dropped kerb, for example:
- leads onto an A, B or C classified road
- is within a Conservation Area
- involves a listed building, or walls attached to one
- gives access to commercial or industrial premises
- involves paving an area of more than 5 square metres
- is part of other development, such as new buildings or extensions
Planning applications are made to your local council:
- Ipswich Borough Council
- East Suffolk Council
- Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils
- West Suffolk Council
If you rent your home, you'll also need your landlord's permission.
Step 3: Apply and pay
The application form is available on the council's dropped kerb page and is sent to Suffolk Highways by email or post. At the time of writing, the council lists:
- an application fee of £450, which is non-refundable even if the application is refused
- optional pre-application advice for £225, if you're unsure whether your property meets the criteria
Payment is made to the council, either online through its payment page or by the other methods it lists. The council visits the site to check the application against its criteria before making a decision.
Step 4: Once permission is granted
No work can start on the highway until written permission has been given. The council's criteria also state that the work must be carried out by a contractor accredited under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, and that the cost of the works is met by the applicant.
How we can help
On our site visit we'll look at your frontage with the council's criteria in mind, take the measurements needed, and help you prepare your application paperwork. Council fees are paid to the council and are separate from the cost of the works.
Read more about new dropped kerbs and extensions, or get in touch to arrange a visit.