Trading from a table on UK streets: who can do it, where and how much it costs

In short: a sole trader, company or other business can sell goods from a table, but cannot simply claim an empty pavement. A fixed spot will usually require a street trading licence or consent from the local council, the landowner’s permission and an available approved pitch. Each council sets its own rules and prices.

Who may trade

A sole trader, company or other business may apply. In Scotland, a licence is often required not only for the owner but for each employee who actually trades. Permission is usually tied to a named person, location, days, hours and category of goods.

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Your immigration status must allow employment or self-employment. A council licence does not itself create that right.

Where a table may be placed

• an available pitch at a licensed council market;
• a fair, festival or other event through its organiser;
• a standalone approved pitch designated by the council;
• private land with the owner’s written permission — although council licensing may still apply where the site is open to the public.

Even with an application, the council may refuse the chosen location, restrict goods and hours or operate a waiting list. GOV.UK says that in England and Wales trading without a required licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000.

What it costs: official 2026 examples

These are examples, not a single UK tariff. Pitch rent, deposits, electricity, waste collection and public liability insurance may be charged separately.

Can you trade for free?

There is no general right to a free street table. Councils or organisers sometimes waive an application fee for charities and community projects. Westminster, for example, lists a £0 application charge for a charity/community stall. That does not automatically make the pitch free: rent, event services or insurance may still be payable.

Watch for trader calls from council-run markets, community fairs and pop-up events. The organiser must state whether a free or subsidised pitch is offered. Do not arrive with a table without written confirmation.

A £12.25 pedlar’s certificate is not a table licence

A pedlar’s certificate costs £12.25 and lasts one year across the UK. It is for someone aged 17 or over who travels on foot and carries their goods, including in a small trolley. If you occupy a fixed pitch or table, GOV.UK directs you to obtain a street trading licence. Ask the relevant council whether a certificate is accepted on a particular street.

If you sell food

The Food Standards Agency requires a food business to be registered with the local authority at least 28 days before trading begins. Registration is free, but it does not replace a street trading licence. Hygiene, allergen, gas and electrical-safety documents may also be required. Alcohol and hot food sold after 11pm need additional permissions.

Tax and self-employment

HMRC provides individuals with a trading allowance of up to £1,000 of gross trading income per tax year. Where combined gross trading income exceeds £1,000, you will usually need to tell HMRC and register for Self Assessment. The tax allowance does not remove licensing or pitch-fee obligations.

Lowest-risk route for a beginner

1. Choose a named market or event, not simply a street.
2. Ask whether the organiser’s permission covers individual traders and what documents are required.
3. Check street-trading rules by postcode through GOV.UK.
4. Obtain written confirmation of the pitch and total price.
5. For food, register at least 28 days in advance and prepare safety documents.
6. Do not buy equipment before the pitch is confirmed: a council may refuse or offer different days.