How to Change or Add an Operating Centre on Your Licence

If you need to park your vehicles somewhere new — whether due to expansion, relocation, or just practicality — you’ll need to formally update your Operator Licence. You can’t just start using a new yard, driveway, or site without permission from the Traffic Commissioner.

This guide explains:

• When you need to update your licence

• How to add, remove, or change an operating centre

• The process for Restricted Licence holders

• Required documentation and forms

• Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Let’s keep your operations compliant and your licence up to date.

When Do You Need to Change or Add an Operating Centre?

You must apply to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner if:

✅ You want to add a new site to park vehicles

✅ You’re moving from one site to another

✅ You want to increase the number of vehicles at an existing site

✅ You no longer use a site and want to remove it from your licence

🚫 You cannot simply start using a new parking location without notifying and receiving approval.

Doing so is a direct breach of your licence undertakings — and it’s one of the top reasons operators are called to Public Inquiry.

Why Does It Matter?

The Operating Centre is more than just a parking spot. The Traffic Commissioner uses it to assess:

• Whether the site is suitable for commercial vehicle use

• If there’s sufficient space for your fleet

• If your operation might cause nuisance or obstruction to neighbours

• Whether you meet your legal undertakings as an operator

If you move sites without telling the Traffic Commissioner, you could face:

• Fines or vehicle prohibitions

• Licence curtailment or suspension

• A call to Public Inquiry

• Reputational damage

Step-by-Step: How to Add or Change an Operating Centre

✅ Step 1: Confirm Suitability of the New Site

Before you apply, ensure the site:

• Has enough space for the number and size of vehicles you plan to keep

• Is off-road and safe for HGV parking

• Won’t cause noise, obstruction, or disturbance

• Has the owner’s written permission (if not owned by you)

• Does not require planning permission, or you have it if needed

✅ Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Restricted Licence holders can:

• Use form GV81 to apply by post

• Or complete the process online via the VOSA Self-Service Portal

You’ll need to provide:

• The address of the new site

• The number of vehicles and trailers to be parked there

• Proof of ownership or permission to use the land

• A supporting statement if planning permission isn’t required

✅ Step 3: Wait for Approval Before Using the New Site

You must not use the new operating centre until you receive written approval from the Traffic Commissioner.

For Restricted Licence holders:

• There is usually no need for a public notice in a local newspaper

• Decisions are typically faster than for Standard Licence holders

• However, delays are still possible — plan ahead

✅ Step 4: Remove Any Old Sites (If Needed)

If you are moving sites or no longer using an old one, be sure to:

• Request removal of the old operating centre via GV81

• Keep your vehicle count updated across all listed centres

You don’t need a separate form — it can all be done through the same application.

✅ Step 5: Keep All Records On File

Save and organise:

• Your application confirmation

• Traffic Commissioner’s written approval

• Any supporting documents (e.g. lease agreement, planning permission evidence)

• Copies of correspondence or emails

This is important if DVSA inspects you or if you face questions about your licence.

What About Temporary Parking?

Even for short-term use (e.g. construction projects, seasonal contracts, temporary site closure), you must:

• Apply to temporarily add a new operating centre

• Receive approval before using it

There is no exemption for temporary use — DVSA and Traffic Commissioners expect full compliance.

What If the Operating Centre Is Shared?

You can share a site with another business, as long as:

• Each operator has enough dedicated space

• You have the owner’s permission in writing

• You both have the site declared on your respective licences

This is common on:

• Farms

• Industrial estates

• Builder’s yards

• Maintenance provider sites

⚠️ DVSA may inspect to ensure it’s not overcrowded.

What If I Park at Home or on a Residential Street?

• Home parking is only allowed if it’s listed as an operating centre, off-road, and doesn’t cause nuisance.

• Street parking or verges are not acceptable and will lead to enforcement.

If you're not sure whether your site is suitable, get advice before applying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Why It’s a Problem
❌ Using a new site before approval	Breach of licence undertakings
❌ Not getting permission from the landowner	May invalidate your licence use
❌ Parking on the street temporarily	DVSA can and will take enforcement action
❌ Failing to update vehicle numbers per site	Makes you appear disorganised or misleading
❌ Assuming a new depot automatically counts	All locations must be listed and approved

FAQs

❓ How long does approval take?

Usually 2–6 weeks, but can be longer. Don’t make assumptions — wait for written approval.

❓ Do I need to notify local authorities?

Not unless planning permission is required — but complaints from councils can trigger investigations.

❓ Can I use a mate’s yard if I have their permission?

Yes — but only after applying and receiving formal approval to use it.

❓ Do I need to publish a notice in the paper?

Only if you hold a Standard Licence. Restricted Licence holders usually do not.

❓ Can I park one vehicle at home and another at a yard?

Only if both locations are declared and approved on your licence.

Conclusion

If you need to change or add an operating centre, don’t just move and hope no one notices. The rules are clear — and enforced.

Take the time to apply properly, get written approval, and keep your licence up to date. That way, your business stays compliant, confident, and ready for anything DVSA throws your way.

Next in the series:👉 Avoiding Complaints: Managing Noise and Nuisance at Your Operating Centre