Permit to display a banner

Overhead banner guidance

To place a banner over any part of a public road or footway, you must have a permit issued by The Highland Council under Section 90(1) of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984.

Placing a banner without permission, or not following the conditions of your permit, is an offence.

Scope of permission

Permission only covers placing the banner over the road. You may need other permits depending on your event or activity; getting other permits does not guarantee banner approval

Applications must be submitted at least 28 days before the banner is due to be erected and may require Ward Manager approval and consultation with local Members.

Approved locations

Banners are only allowed at specific sites:

  • Academy Street, Inverness
  • Church Street, Inverness
  • High Street, Nairn
  • High Street, Tain
  • High Street, Dingwall
  • High Street, Fort William
  • Sir George Square, Thurso
  • Bridge Street, Wick

Banners cannot be hung from:

  • lighting columns
  • utility poles
  • any other unsuitable structure

Banner requirements

  • Material: Strong canvas or reinforced PVC
  • Maximum size: 9 metres long x 0.8 metres deep
  • In some cases, you may need to supply 6mm polypropylene rope. The Area Lighting Office will advise if this is needed

Delivery and collection

You should:

  • deliver the banner to the Lighting Depot at least 3 days before the erection date
  • collect the banner within 3 days of removal

We are not responsible for banners left after this time.

Seach for street lighting depots

Fees

  • An invoice will be issued - cheques and cash are not accepted

Removal of banner

We may remove a banner at short notice to allow access for:

  • emergency services
  • utility works
  • other essential reasons

We will try to re-erect the banner as soon as possible at no extra cost. If re-erection is not possible, a refund may be considered.

Page last modified: 30 September 2025