Highways Agency - Safe roads, Reliable journeys, Informed travellers

Step 3: How do I make an application?

Obtain a copy of the local guidelines and application form from the HTA. Submit the completed application form with the appropriate fee to the HTA. They will tell you if other authorities need to be involved. Normally the HTA will undertake any necessary liaison.

Approval for signs will depend on whether the HTA agrees that they will be helpful for road safety or traffic management reasons. This in turn will depend on factors such as the amount of existing signing on the roads in question. The decision on signing is entirely at the discretion of the relevant authorities. There is no statutory right of appeal.

How many signs do I need?

Although you will probably have your own ideas, the highway authorities will determine the number of signs you need. The decision will be based on the need for signs to direct motorists safely from the first sign to the premises - and it may be fewer or more signs than you think. Remember that the final decision lies with the relevant authorities.

There has to be consistency and continuity of tourist signing from the first sign to the destination, including across highway authority boundaries. Gaps in signing to a destination will not be permitted.

What about costs?

All costs must be paid by the applicant. The total amount will depend upon the number of signs needed and their size (larger signs are needed where traffic speeds are higher). Charges include the cost of design, production, installation and future maintenance during the serviceable life of the signs, and an amount to cover administration by the highway authorities. Costs of signs on high speed roads may be very expensive, if for example safety fencing is required. Any application fees are not refundable.

Once the signs have been installed they become the property of the highway authority.