It might not prevent it, but it’s likely to add to costs.
The things which seem to be a definitive ‘no’ are a street tree on the footpath you need lowered, being less than 10m from junction and possibly street lighting or other street furniture. Some councils will consider moving them at your expense whilst others simply say no. Oh and traffic calming measures outside your house, controlled parking zone bays outside your house or in your street can also be ‘no’.
When I had one done, after the initial approval and marking out, we paid a second fee for the licence pack and that included plans of where all the utilities in the street are laid. We were told that until they dug down under our path where sewer and pipes are and dug up the footpath and could see the depth of pipes/cables etc it was unknown if anything would have to be lowered or dropped…and if it did have to be it would cost. Fortunately nothing needed moving or lowering.
At least it’s obvious there’s something there and the kid can be lifted to see if it’s a problem or not before they start digging. So although it could mean the answer is no or the cost is higher, you will know before work commences.
And when the council inspector comes out to look, they will know what that is and next steps as they see this stuff all the time. Bit frustrating not to know more definitely before applying and spending money though.
What is the depth of garden that’s required in your area? Mine was the standard 4.8m which was okay for us, but it seems more are going to 5m or even 5.5m or 6m which means lots of gardens simply aren’t steep enough. Having seen the SUVs and van type cars overhanging the footpath though, I can see why the depths need to be longer.
Its worth applying. The criteria will only get stricter.