Councils given more freedom to control when utility companies can dig up roads
Street works permit schemes are currently in place in over 50 authorities and have been for over a year now. Permits give councils the ability to set conditions on the length of time to complete works and if these are breached or work was carried out without a permit, then a fine can be imposed.
Previously permits had to have departmental approval from the DfT, this requirement has now been removed making it easier to implement new permits.
The maximum fine for working without a permit is £5,000 whilst a maximum fine of £2,500 can be levied for not meeting a permit condition.