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myDropped Kerb Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost for a dropped kerb is typically £2,000.
- Most drop kerbs take 1 to 2 days to complete.
- NEW! Use our drop kerb cost calculator for a quick estimate.
- We'll provide dropped kerb cost breakdowns by the size of the job and number of drop kerbs.
- Find out how long the job takes, and what's typically involved.
- How to find and hire a drop kerb contractor using MyJobQuote.
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Asking yourself, "How much is a dropped kerb?" You're not the only one.
Take a look at our guide to discover what affects the drop kerb cost and exactly how the process works. You'll also discover what councils look for, plus what to expect from contractors.
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Get free, no obligation quotes from drop kerb contractors near you who guide you through the whole process. Just submit a few details, and we'll handle the rest.
Want to find out more before you start comparing drop kerb prices?
For all the details on lowering a kerb, carry on reading...
£2,000
Table of Contents
- How Much Does a Dropped Kerb Cost?
- How Much Do Dropped Kerb Contractors Cost?
- Additional Dropped Kerb Costs
- What Impacts the Cost of a Dropped a Kerb?
- Benefits of Installing a Dropped Kerb
- What's Involved in Dropping a Kerb?
- Can I Drop a Kerb Myself?
- Checklist: Hiring Local Dropped Kerb Contractors
- FAQs
Dropped Kerb Cost Calculator
How Much Does a Dropped Kerb Cost?
So, how much does it cost to drop a kerb on average?
If you're looking to drop a kerb for domestic vehicle access, prices will vary. Each local council will charge different amounts for dropping a kerb, but the average cost to lower a kerb is usually around £2,000.
Whether or not you can drop a kerb depends on your location and the local council policy, and each council has a different price.
So, can I get a dropped kerb without permission?
No, the pavement usually belongs to the local council, so you'll have to apply to get the kerb dropped.
How do I get my local dropped kerb cost?
To get a dropped kerb quote, visit your local council's website. You'll pay a non-refundable council fee that varies widely by area, which is typically a couple of hundred pounds. You can also try our free drop kerb cost calculator above for an instant estimate.
What is your main reason for dropping a kerb?
For driveway/off-road parking
90 votes - 82%82% of votes
Provide access to a garage or garden
4 votes - 4%4% of votes
Improve accessibility for those with limited mobility
12 votes - 11%11% of votes
Increase property value
4 votes - 4%4% of votes
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Drop Kerb Price List
The average kerb dropping job usually involves removing between 3 and 7 kerbstones, although smaller access points may require only 2.
The cost of this will vary depending on several factors, including:
- The width of the pavement (the distance from your property boundary to the road). A wider footpath usually costs more because more excavation and reinstatement are needed.
- How many kerbs need to be dropped.
- Your location. On top of the construction cost, you will usually need to pay separate council application, inspection, or permit fees. Some councils include these within one package, while others charge them separately.
Average drop kerb prices can be found in the following table. This is for the construction work only, and does not include council fees.
| Number of Kerbs | Footpath Under 2m | Footpath 2m to 3m | Footpath Over 3m |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Kerbs | £750–£950 | £900–£1,100 | £1,050–£1,300 |
| 3 Kerbs | £900–£1,200 | £1,100–£1,400 | £1,300–£1,700 |
| 4 Kerbs | £1,100–£1,400 | £1,300–£1,700 | £1,500–£1,900 |
| 5 Kerbs | £1,300–£1,700 | £1,500–£1,900 | £1,700–£2,200 |
| 6 Kerbs | £1,500–£1,900 | £1,700–£2,200 | £2,000–£2,600 |
| 7 Kerbs | £1,700–£2,200 | £2,000–£2,500 | £2,300–£3,000 |
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Note: These are guide prices only. Many councils use fixed schedules or approved contractor rates, so your local council's charges will always take precedence.
Council fees vary considerably between regions, but as a rough estimate you can expect to pay the following, on top of the above construction costs:
| Council / Approval Cost | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Application / assessment fee | See table below |
| Inspection fee | £50–£150 |
| Planning permission (if required) | £206 (England) |
| Additional traffic management (if required) | £200–£500+ |
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How Much to Drop a Kerb in Different Locations
How much does the council charge for a dropped kerb?
There's a lot of variation between council areas in how much they will charge for a dropped kerb application.
The following tables highlight how much various local authorities charge for the application only, not including any building work or other fees.
Dropped Kerb Cost in England
There's no one single fee for kerb dropping in England. Each council has its own pricing strategies and conditions:
| Local Authority | Application Fee | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Birmingham | £125 | Non-refundable application fee |
| Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole | £130 | Requires site inspection |
| Cheshire | £170 | Non-refundable application fee |
| Coventry | £130 | Fee if using council contractor, otherwise £200 |
| Greenwich | £133 | Non-refundable inspection fee |
| Kent | £500 | Additional £76 inspection charges may apply |
| Lincolnshire | £300 | Fees reviewed/updated annually |
| Reading | £156 | Includes site visit |
| Suffolk | £450 | Non-refundable application fee |
| Somerset | £205.26 | Non-refundable admin fee |
| Warwickshire | £174 | Non-refundable admin/inspection fee |
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Before applying for a dropped kerb in England, make sure you understand your council's exact requirements.
Some application fees are non-refundable, while some require you to use specific contractors to complete the work. Find out your individual circumstances before you start spending money on your project to avoid any issues.
I want to strip out two levels of my front garden to create off-road parking, so lots of soil removal and shoring up a very high stone wall on one side, plus utility relocation. Can builders do the whole job? I know I need to involve the Council because of shoring up the high wall and taking parking spaces from the road.
"You will have to apply to your local council about dropping the kerbs if they haven’t been dropped already. A builder or landscaper could undertake the job."
Dropped Kerb Cost in Wales
Now, let's look at kerb lowering costs in Wales:
| Local Authority | Application Fee | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiff | £263 | Non-refundable application fee |
| Carmarthenshire | £227 | Non-refundable application fee |
| Conwy | £500.11 | Includes admin and inspections |
| Gwynedd | £276 | Fee if using council contractor, otherwise £200 |
| Neath Port Talbot | £130 | Refused applications get £60 refunded |
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Kerb dropping application costs are almost always separate to construction costs, so treat these costs as an additional cost on top of your labour and material fees.
Dropped Kerb Cost in Scotland
Dropped kerbs in Scotland are often referred to as "vehicle crossings" or "vehicular access" points:
| Local Authority | Application Fee | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Dumfries & Galloway | £170.25 | Refundable application fee if rejected |
| City of Edinburgh | Around £300 | Non-refundable application fee |
| East Dunbartonshire | £84 | Non-refundable application fee |
| Fife | £112 | Non-refundable application fee |
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If a particular region doesn't publicly list its application fees, you'll have to request them on a project-by-project basis.
Dropped Kerb Cost in Northern Ireland
Lastly, here's what you need to know about dropped kerbs in Northern Ireland:
| Highway Authority | Application Fee | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Department for Infrastructure (DfI Roads) | Depends on region | DfI Roads has the authority on dropped kerb applications in Northern Ireland |
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Different to England, Wales, and Scotland, Northern Ireland's dropped kerb applications are handled by the Department for Infrastructure, rather than individual councils.
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Use our drop kerb cost calculator and get an instant, no obligation estimate.
How Much Do Dropped Kerb Contractors Cost?
So, how much should you expect local dropped kerb contractors to cost in your area?
Labour usually makes up £800 to £1,500 of the total construction cost, depending on pavement width, kerb length, and whether traffic management is required.
Your local council may appoint an approved contractor to carry out the work for you, or some councils may let you choose your own contractor, but you will usually need to get them approved by the council before the work starts.
- If Council Supplied — Where the council supplies the contractor, you'll pay the council's fixed schedule.
- If Privately Appointed — In areas that let you appoint your own, costs are quoted per job under a street-works permit rather than a simple day rate. Some kerbs may take longer to drop, so they will wind up costing more in labour than others.
The time it takes to drop a kerb can depend on several factors, including:
- The length and width of the kerb to be dropped.
- The complexity of the job.
- How many people are working on the job.
In most domestic jobs, contractors can complete a dropped kerb involving 3 to 5 kerbstones in 1 to 2 days, depending on the footpath width and council requirements. Scheduling after approval varies by council (often a 2- to 3-week window once the licence is issued).
It can take several weeks for a council to approve a dropped kerb application (sometimes up to 12 weeks), so the entire process from application to completion can take up to around 3 months.
Can driveway installers usually sort out getting a kerb dropped or is that something the homeowner needs to do?
"Normally, you need permission from the local council and only builders with a street works ticket are legally allowed to drop a kerb. This is to do with working in the highway."
Additional Dropped Kerb Costs
Below is a price list of all of the additional costs that you may wish to consider on a kerb dropping job, especially if you're upgrading your driveway at the same time.
| Job Description | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Driveway Cost | £2,500–£8,000 |
| Garden Boundary Wall Demolition Cost | £400–£800 |
| Driveway Gate Cost | £700 |
| New Fence Cost | £1,500 |
| CCTV Installation Cost | £550 |
| Outdoor Lighting Cost | £200 |
| Skip Hire Cost | £220 |
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It's also worth thinking about budgeting for ongoing maintenance of your dropped kerb. Costs will be minimal, but if damage does occur, it can cost several hundred pounds to repair a dropped kerb.
I would like to create a 3 metre wide driveway in my front garden with concrete. Will I need planning permission?
"Yes, you will need planning permission and suitable drainage."
What Impacts the Cost of a Dropped a Kerb?
Here's what affects dropped kerb prices:
- Footpath Width and Number of Kerbs — The more kerbs, the higher the overall cost. Dropping 3 kerbs on a pavement under 2m can cost as little as £900, whereas a job dropping 7 kerbs on a wider footway can cost up to £3,000, before adding council fees.
- Site Obstructions — If you have any obstructions that may get in the way of dropping the kerb, you may need additional work. This can include tree removal costs or pathway clearing fees.
- Location — Each council charges a different amount for the application fee, which can range from under £100 to over £500. Those living in the London area should expect to pay around £100 to £300 more for the job of dropping a kerb than those living in the North of the UK.
- Council Fees and Planning Permission — Creating or widening a front hardstanding over 5m²? Then it must be porous/permeable or drain to a permeable area like a soakaway. You may need planning permission for this. Some councils refund part of the fee if the application is refused, while others keep the full assessment charge.
- Contractor Type — Some councils will have their own pool of approved suppliers for dropping kerbs, whereas other areas may let you choose your own contractor. Each option carries different pricing.
- Utility Relocation — Moving any street furniture like a street lighting column, traffic sign, cable box, or other utilities underground can increase the cost of a dropped kerb significantly depending on what's required. You may need to contact the utility company to arrange for removal or modification.
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Benefits of Installing a Dropped Kerb
As well as being a legal requirement if accessing your driveway requires crossing a public footpath, building a dropped kerb offers many benefits. Although the kerb dropping cost can be high, many homeowners find it a worthwhile investment because it offers:
- Higher Property Appeal — Installing a dropped kerb can make your property more appealing, and valuable, to potential buyers if you decide to sell.
- Protection — Having the correct access to your driveway protects the verge, paving slabs, and surrounding verges. It also prevents damage to your vehicle by providing a smoother transition from the road to your driveway.
- Better Accessibility — Dropped kerbs aren't only for cars. Fitting one also makes access more convenient for bicycles, pushchairs, wheelchairs, and those with limited mobility who may not manage a large kerb.
- Obstruction Prevention — It is illegal for anyone to park across your dropped kerb, so by having one fitted you can ensure access to your property is not blocked by others.
What's Involved in Dropping a Kerb?
Dropping a kerb isn't a straightforward DIY job.
There are council requirements and qualifications to consider, which is why most homeowners hire an approved contractor to handle the work.
With MyJobQuote, you can request several quotes from drop kerb contractors near you. It's fast, free, and there's no obligation to go ahead.
Let's take a look at the process of getting a kerb dropped:
Before the Job
- Site Assessment — Once you've submitted your application form, someone will come to assess the area and check the ground for any cables or pipes that may get in the way of the job. This is what the inspection fee covers.
- Protecting Utilities — If cables or pipes are present, they may need to be protected before the job can start to avoid any damage that may occur during the process of dropping the kerb or when vehicles are parking on it.
During the Job
- Excavating the Area — The drop kerb contractors will need to measure how far they need to dig into the pavement to complete the job without damaging the existing foundations.
- Lowering the Kerbstones — The kerbstones will then be lowered to create a ramp-style driveway.
After the Job
- Strengthening the Kerb — The new verge is strengthened to ensure that the new kerbstones are strong enough to support the weight of any vehicles that may be moving or parking on them, ensuring long-term functionality.
- Re-Tarmacking — Once the newly dropped kerbstones have been installed, the area can then be re-tarmacked to complete the job.
What's the optimum width of a driveway entrance so you can pull in and out easily?
"For easy access with your vehicle, I would recommend an 8 to 10 foot (2.4m to 3m) opening to make it easier to access the driveway."
Can I Drop a Kerb Myself?
The short answer: No.
Councils will strongly advise against completing a kerb dropping job yourself, as the work is carried out on public highways.
However, there are some exceptions if you are fully qualified and meet the following requirements, including:
- A Road Opening Notice.
- Full NRSWA accreditation.
- Compliance with Chapter 8 highway safety guidelines.
- Access to utility drawings.
- Public liability insurance (covering minimum £10 million).
- Planning consent to complete the job.
Even with all the requirements met, you'll still need to get approval from your local council or borough council before you start any work.
Is planning permission or building regulations approval needed to re-pave an existing driveway?
"No planning permission is needed unless you have to do a drop kerb on the main footpath."
Checklist: Hiring Local Dropped Kerb Contractors
Quite often, your local council will provide a contractor for you to complete the job of dropping a kerb. However, some local councils will allow you to choose a contractor yourself.
Below is a list of things to look out for when hiring a contractor to complete the job for you:
- Do they hold a valid SWQR (Street Works) qualification? Contractors must hold this qualification to carry out work on public highways legally. Most councils maintain a list of approved contractors who meet this standard.
- Do they have insurance? Public liability insurance is something you want a contractor to have in case something goes wrong. For highway work, look for cover of at least £10 million.
- How much experience do they have with dropping kerbs? Ask how many similar jobs they've completed. Ideally, you're looking for someone with a few years of experience working on council-approved dropped kerb projects.
- Have you been given an itemised quote? Ask for a breakdown of the costs for materials, labour, and any council fees, so there are no surprises.
- Have you compared multiple quotes? It's worth getting at least three quotes so you can be confident you're getting a fair price for the job.
- Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile to read feedback from other homeowners.
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FAQs
Do I Need a Dropped Kerb?
If you intend to drive a vehicle over the pavement into your driveway, then you will need to get a dropped kerb. If you don't have a drop kerb, you shouldn't drive over the pavement, as you may be subject to enforcement action.
Can I Widen an Existing Dropped Kerb?
Yes, but you'll need council approval before widening an existing kerb. The application process is the same as if you were requesting a brand-new dropped kerb, as you're still altering the public highway.
Can I Get a Free Dropped Kerb?
If someone in your household has a blue badge, you might get a discount on the cost of your dropped kerb, but this doesn't necessarily mean you'll get a free dropped kerb. Some councils also give back the application fee if your request is refused, but check with your local council to see what options are available in your area.
What's the Cost of Reinstalling a Kerb?
Reinstating or altering a dropped kerb is usually priced as part of a full highway job, with labour often contributing £800 to £1,500 of total construction cost depending on width and council requirements.
Why Was My Dropped Kerb Application Refused?
Drop kerb rejections can be because of obstructions (such as street lighting, drains/service hatches or protected trees) being in the way, poor visibility, not enough driveway space, steep gradients, or if your property is within a conservation area. If your dropped kerb application has been refused, speak to your local council for their refusal notice.
Will a Dropped Kerb Add to My Home's Value?
In most cases, yes. A dropped kerb will increase your property's value. This is especially desirable if the house is in a location where off-street parking is at a premium.
If My Dropped Kerb Gets Damaged, Who Pays for the Repairs?
Dropped kerbs technically belong to the council as they form part of the public highway, so general wear and tear should be their responsibility. However, if you have knowingly caused the damage with your vehicle, you may be required to pay.
Is a Dropped Kerb Worth It?
Yes, if you intend to build a driveway, you will need an access point. A dropped kerb is not just worth it, but a legal requirement.
Do I Need a Council-Approved Dropped Kerb Contractor?
In most cases, yes. Because a dropped kerb affects the public highway, councils usually require the work to be carried out either by their own approved contractor or by a private contractor who holds the correct street works qualifications and has been approved by the council before work begins. Always check your local council's rules before booking a contractor.
Can I Drop a Kerb Without Council Permission?
No, you should not lower a kerb or drive over a pavement without council approval. A dropped kerb forms part of the public highway, so carrying out work without permission can lead to enforcement action, fines, or being required to pay for the kerb to be reinstated.
