Applying for Temporary Traffic Light Signals (multi-way lights)

Important - Non statutory undertakers
Please ensure that your application includes a road opening notice to book road space. This is required to accompany your traffic signals application. 

To be able to place temporary traffic signals on the highway you are required to apply for a licence from the local highway authority, Essex County Council.

Statutory Undertakers (Utilities)

The Secretary of State has issued a blanket agreement for all statutory undertakers (utilities) to be able to place 2-way temporary signals on the highway when a notice is issued through Street Manager.  Three or more junction heads which require temporary traffic signals should be applied for as below.

How do I apply for a standard set of Temporary Traffic Signals?

The application form (below) should be completed and returned by email to permit-scheme@essexhighways.org along with a detailed traffic management drawing showing timings of the works site.

How much does a standard Temporary Traffic Signal Licence cost?

There is no charge for the application.

Any traffic management or signing necessitated by the temporary traffic signals should be arranged and paid for by the applicant. ECC Highway Network Management cannot advise on temporary traffic management.

How long does it take?

Temporary traffic signals take a minimum of 10 working days to process, however please allow time to make amendments if the application is refused.

How long is the standard Temporary Traffic Signals Licence valid for?

An approved application for temporary traffic signals is valid at the same location for a period of up to 2 years*, as long as the following points are adhered to:-

  • Approval reference number is quoted
  • The junction has had no improvements or alterations since the last application
  • Traffic flows are similar to those as of the last application.

*This does not mean that you can have temporary traffic signals in situ for the whole validity period of 2 years.


Emergency Temporary Traffic Signal Licence

Urgent temporary traffic signals can be issued by us in the case of an emergency, for example in the case of a water/gas main leak or danger to life.

How do I apply for Emergency Temporary Traffic Signals?

Use the form below to apply for an urgent as well as standard application.  This should be returned by email to permit-scheme@essexhighways.org with a detailed traffic management plan showing timings for the works site

How much does an Emergency Temporary Traffic Signals Licence cost?

There is currently no cost to the applicant.

This does will not include any temporary traffic management costs associated with the proposed works. Any traffic management or signing necessitated by the temporary traffic signals should be arranged and paid for by the applicant. ECC Highway Network Management cannot advise on temporary traffic management.

How long is the Emergency Temporary Traffic Signals Licence valid for?

An approved application for temporary traffic signals is valid at the same location for a period of up to 2 years*, as long as the following points are adhered to:-

  • Approval reference number is quoted.
  • The junction has had no improvements or alterations since the last application.
  • Traffic flows are similar to those as of the last application.

*This does not mean that you can have temporary traffic signals in situ for the whole validity period of 2 years.