Table and chairs on pavement licence

Summary of requirements

To place tables and chairs on the pavement in Wandsworth you require a licence from Wandsworth Council.

Conditions may be attached and a fee may be payable.

Note: If you wish to display advertising or shop goods on the pavement, you will need a separate licence from us. See Advertising or shop display on pavement licence for more information.

Eligibility criteria

Frontage and footway consent may have to be obtained first.

Application evaluation process

Public notice of the application must be given detailing the proposal and deadline for representations.

All representations received must be considered and any other relevant authorities must be consulted. Consents must not be unreasonably withheld. 

Will tacit consent apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within a reasonable period please contact us. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details below.

What can I do if my application is refused?

Please contact us in the first instance at:

Email: highwaysandtraffic@wandsworth.gov.uk

An appointed arbitrator will determine if consent has been unreasonably withheld.

What if I am unhappy with a condition imposed?

Please contact Wandsworth Council at the address above in the first instance.

An appointed arbitrator will adjudicate if there is disagreement as to conditions attached.

What if I have a query about my licence?

Please contact Wandsworth Council at the address above.

European services directive

If you think that the council has not complied with the European services directive by imposing requirements or conditions in respect of your application that are discriminatory, unfair or disproportionate, please contact:

Email: solvit@bis.gsi.gov.uk

Consumer complaints about tables, chairs or other temporary furniture on the pavement

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Alternatively, you can contact the council's Trading Standards:

Email: tradingstandards@wandsworth.gov.uk

Health and safety

Before setting up any business in the UK, you must also ensure that it will comply with the relevant health and safety regulations. Please see the links below for further information:

• Our Health and safety web pages
• Health and Safety Executive web pages