Pop up shops

[gibby]

I am trying to clarify the law on trading from poplular spots over the summer.

I notice some market traders, food stalls etc trade in car parks etc and on asking them they seem not to have permission unless it's a market etc.

 

[obscure]

It would depend on who owns the land. You can't simply set up on someone else's land without their permission (well you can but you could be taken to court for trespass). You need to get permission from the land owner.

 

[estwig]

I'm sure they do have permission, they aren't going to tell you that, you might be future competition. If you do rock up next to them one day, having believed you don't need permission, a quick phone call to the council and the landlord and your gone.

 

[Socio South West]

Contact the Local Council licencing department to find out how to get a licence for your area.
Local licence holders can get quite nasty if you pitch up and start selling without a licence, but if you are legit they can't do a thing to stop you, and run the risk of losing their own licences if they do try to stop you
A recent case where an ice cream seller tried to work outside the regulations under a Pedlar's licence here: http://lyme-online.co.uk/news/lyme-regis/ice-cream-trader-blames-council-for-harassment-and-threats/

 

[Ashley_Price]

With councils being constantly squeezed and having their budgets cut to the bone, then the licensing officials rarely go out, unless there is a complaint by someone.

Not the same thing, I know, but in Lewes while busking is allowed, they cannot have amplifiers. Yet, you should see the number of buskers with amps at the weekend. They know the Licensing officers aren't going to come round on a Saturday or Sunday, and of course if people complain, nothing is done until the Monday anyway.

However, of course, that doesn't mean you should try a pop up shop and "hope" to get away with it. Why not speak to the landlord or agent of an empty retail premises and see if you can set up a pop-up in one of those.