Crane operations are subject to a wide range of legal and logistical restrictions, particularly on sites located near infrastructure such as railways, airports or power lines. For construction projects in built-up areas, including residential or commercial developments, overlooking these restrictions can lead to delays, compliance issues or safety concerns.
At Total Lifting Services, we offer a full suite of lifting solutions to keep your project moving safely and within the law. Whether you’re managing an office refurbishment in a city centre or a multi-phase housing development, our contract lifting services and long-term crane hire options are tailored to support complex, high-pressure sites.
Common Restrictions Affecting Crane Operations
Lifting Near Railways
Crane operations near railway lines must be carefully planned and approved by the relevant authority. In most cases, this means working with Network Rail, which oversees infrastructure across England, Scotland and Wales. If lifting work is close to or over live tracks, their Asset Protection (ASPRO) team will assess risks and set any restrictions.
In London, lifting near the Underground or Overground falls under Transport for London (TfL), which has similar requirements adapted to its own network.
For sites near heritage railways or privately owned tracks, such as tourist lines or industrial estates, the local operator or infrastructure owner will be the point of contact. These may still require adherence to national safety standards, especially where public access is involved.
Total Lifting Services can manage these consultations as part of our contract lifting service, helping to avoid delays and ensure full compliance.
The Böcker AK 36/4000 is a practical choice for these scenarios, offering a compact profile, excellent reach and an impressive 4 t payload. With a 36 m jib, it provides the reach needed to complete lifts from a safe distance and is particularly effective in areas with restricted access such as rail-adjacent sites.
Lifting Near Airports or Flight Paths
Airspace around airports is tightly controlled. Projects near flight paths may require a Temporary Obstacle Notice (TON) and prior approval from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), especially if using tall cranes.
The Böcker AK 46/6000 strikes the perfect balance between reach and manoeuvrability. It offers up to 39 m in horizontal reach and can lift 1,000 kg at 26 m. Thanks to its relatively low body weight and flexible truck mounting options, it’s ideal for use near flight paths where crane height and positioning must be carefully managed.
Operating Near Power Lines
Lifting near overhead power lines requires detailed risk assessments, physical safety measures and compliance with HSE GS6 guidance. Getting too close can present life-threatening hazards.
The Böcker AK 52/12000 is designed to handle major lifting challenges at a safe distance, lifting 3,000 kg to a 17 m radius with a lifting height of 31 m. Its remote control capability and robust aluminium-steel construction offer the strength and control required for complex jobs near utility infrastructure.
All of our Böcker cranes are powered by the latest Euro 6 engines, helping to reduce emissions and operate quietly: a key advantage when working in residential zones. They also utilise biodegradable hydraulic oil and feature adjustable fuse protection and stop-and-go automatic systems for energy-efficient performance on environmentally sensitive sites.
Lifting from or Over Public Highways
If a crane needs to operate from a road, pavement or verge, or if a load must travel above public space, you will need a permit from the local authority. Temporary traffic management, such as road closures or diversions, may also be required.
We can manage all necessary applications and ensure public safety is maintained throughout. Our truck-mounted Böcker cranes are ideally suited to roadside lifting tasks, providing powerful performance from compact and transportable platforms.
Ground Conditions and Underground Services
Safe crane setup relies on solid, stable ground. On sites with unknown or weak ground conditions, or those with underground services such as gas, water or electrical ducts, lifting operations may be restricted or require special preparation.
We carry out full ground assessments as part of our contract lift service. This ensures correct stabiliser positioning and avoids risk to underground infrastructure, especially when operating heavier cranes such as the Liebherr LTM 1060-3.1, which has a 60 t lifting capacity.
Night-Time Lifting Restrictions
Some city centre projects or retail sites may require lifting operations to take place overnight to avoid daytime disruption. In such cases, councils may require a noise management plan, additional lighting or temporary access controls.
Our modern Böcker cranes offer quiet operation with low-emission engines, making them ideal for night work or low-noise zones. Their precision and stability ensure safe, accurate placement with minimal disturbance to nearby properties.
Lifting in Confined or Built-Up Environments
Tight access, overhead obstructions and proximity to tall buildings can limit crane setup and operation. In dense urban areas, planning must account for limited boom swing, restricted views and wind tunnels caused by surrounding structures.
Crane models such as the Böcker AK 46/6000 and AK 52/12000 are specifically engineered for urban environments. With impressive lifting charts and compact footprints, they allow safe lifting even in tight city centre locations.
Environmental and Conservation Restrictions
Certain areas may be subject to additional environmental regulations. These include conservation zones, listed buildings or protected habitats such as nesting birds or heritage trees. Operations in these areas may be limited by seasonal rules, local authority policies or planning permissions.
All our Böcker cranes are designed with environmental performance in mind, using low-emission engines, AdBlue injection and biodegradable hydraulic oil to support compliance in ecologically sensitive locations.
Wind and Weather Conditions
Weather plays a significant role in lifting safety. Each crane has a maximum allowable wind speed for operation, and heavy rain, lightning or freezing conditions may legally prevent a lift from going ahead. Urban locations can also experience unpredictable wind tunnels that affect stability.
We include weather risk assessment as part of every lifting plan. Our cranes are equipped with the technology and support needed to monitor site conditions and ensure safe, legal lifting at all times.
Permit Requirements and Notifications
Long-Term Lifts and Site Access
If your project requires a crane to remain on site for several weeks or months, you’ll need the appropriate permissions and support in place. This may include permits for public highway use or site-specific safety documentation.
For longer-term construction works, the Liebherr LTM 1060-3.1 is a versatile choice. With a maximum boom length of 48 m and advanced ballast plate configuration, it offers excellent stability across varying ground conditions. This high-capacity crane is ideal for ongoing mechanical, structural or glazing work.
Notifiable Lifts and Legal Duties
Under the LOLER regulations and the CDM Regulations, many lifting operations are classed as notifiable, meaning they must be planned and supervised by competent professionals. All lifts must also comply with BS7121, the recognised standard for safe crane use in the UK.
Our contract lifting service takes full responsibility for compliance, paperwork and safety, offering a fully managed solution for your project.
Safety, Compliance and Expert Support from Total Lifting Services
Lifting near railways, airports, power lines or at night is rarely straightforward, and the list of restrictions doesn’t end there. From ground stability to public safety and environmental protection, lifting in modern construction environments requires careful planning and the right equipment.
At Total Lifting Services, we specialise in managing complex lifts in restricted conditions. With contract lifting and long-term crane hire tailored to residential and commercial developments, we offer the experience, equipment and support you need to keep your project moving.
Contact us today on 0208 226 4000 to find out more about our Böcker and Liebherr crane hire options and to arrange a site assessment.