1 Overview
A dropped kerb (or vehicle crossover) is the dipped or lowered kerb that allows you to access your driveway from the road by driving across the pavement.
- The non-refundable vehicle crossover (VCO) assessment fee is £200.
- The cost of the vehicle crossover construction licence is £287.
- A copy of a vehicle crossover (VCO) licence is £65.00.
A licence is required to create a dropped kerb or widen an existing one in front of your drive or hardstanding.
It is an offence to drive across a footway to access your property without a legally constructed dropped kerb. This is because it may cause damage to the footway or the services (gas, electric and water) underneath.
Before construction of the dropped kerb can start the following steps need to be followed:
- Check to see if you need planning permission from your local district/borough council.
- Seek approval from us. If approved, the approval is valid for six months.
- Choose a contractor - we recommend you get at least three written quotes.
- Your chosen contractor should then apply to us for a licence to construct the dropped kerb.
- The contractor will notify us when the work will start.
- Construction starts and a highway officer will inspect the construction during and after completion.
Supporting document
2 Apply for a licence
Apply for a vehicle crossover (dropped kerb) - homeowner (external link)Contractors
Apply for a vehicle crossover (dropped kerb) construction licence - contractor (external link)Licence check
Vehicle Crossover (VCO) licence check (external link)3 Terms and conditions
The works
All works shall be in accordance with the specific requirements issued by West Sussex County Council (WSCC) at the time of the resident’s application and insofar as the site will be subject to periodic inspection.
Traffic control
The executor of the works shall provide and erect all necessary warning notices, signs and signals for the satisfactory control of traffic. This is in accordance with chapter 8 - 'Traffic Signs Manual 1991' and the 'Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 1994' and any subsequent amendments thereof as directed by the highway network manager.
Health, safety and welfare
The executor of the works shall undertake works in accordance with the 'Health and Safety at Work Act 1974' and all other legislation, approved codes of practice and guidelines applicable to the works. This shall be done with regards to the protection of the public from the works.
Disabled and blind persons
All works shall be executed with due regard to the additional needs of disabled and blind persons using the highway.
Road signs
No existing road sign or line shall be obstructed or rendered less effective due to the execution of works without the approval of the council and the provision of alternative signing or lining to their requirements.
Signing and guarding
All signing, lighting and guarding of these works must comply with safety at 'Street Works and Road Works' A code of practice.
Planning
It is the responsibility of the applicant to consult with the local planning authority to determine whether a planning approval is required for these works.
Non compliance
In the event of the works not being to the entire satisfaction of the council the works shall cease and the original conditions shall be restored forthwith. If necessary, the restoration of works will be carried out by the county council and the costs shall be recoverable.