Applying for a Pavement Licence

Businesses that can apply for a pavement licence

You can apply for a business that uses or proposes to use premises for the sale of food or drink for consumption (on or off the premises) such as:

• public houses
• cafes
• bars
• restaurants
• snack bars
• coffee shops
• ice cream parlours.

Cost and length of licence

• First-time applications: £500
• Renewal: £350

A licence period runs for six months from the date it is granted.

How to apply

Before you apply you will need: 

• name and address of premises
• name and address of licensee
• plans showing the exact location of where tables and chairs will be situated on a scale drawing that shows the dimensions of tables and chairs, width of pavement and proximity to the kerb
• proof of public liability insurance for the sum of £5 million or more
• to display a photo of notice of application for pavement licence in windows of premises - download the notice template from the useful documents on this page
• payment card details.

Complete the online application form to apply. 

Apply now 

If you find it difficult to apply online, email: PavementTC&ALicence@islington.gov.uk.

Next steps

After applying - only if you've given us the necessary documents and correct fee - we will display a notice of your application for 14 days (not including public holidays) on our consultation pages. This is known as the consultation period.

At the end of the consultation period there will be another 14 days (not including public holidays) for us to consider any representations (comments and feedback) and decide whether or not to grant the licence.

If we grant a licence, our compliance team will visit and ensure that your layout matches the plan and that the correct documents are available. If the layout is not as agreed, we will give you time to put things right before taking any further action.

If your application is rejected

There is no statutory appeal process against a decision to refuse an application.