| Selling from | You need |
|---|---|
| Stall on highway | Street trading licence/consent |
| Council-managed market | Market stall agreement |
| Specific location | Consent for that pitch |
| Food | Food safety registration (as well) |
Source: Swindon Borough Council
Key links
- Street trading and licensing – Swindon Borough Council
- swindon.gov.uk – Licensing
- Swindon Market
- Swindon Market and artisan markets
When you need a street trading consent or licence
If you sell from a stall, mobile unit, or similar on the highway or in a council-managed market, you usually need permission from the council. That may be a street trading licence, a market stall agreement, or a consent for a specific location. Trading without permission where it’s required can lead to enforcement action and fines. Check the council’s licensing pages for street trading and markets.
Designated streets and markets
Councils often designate certain streets or pitches where trading is allowed. Elsewhere, trading may be prohibited or restricted. Swindon has a town centre market and other trading locations; the council sets the rules and allocation. Apply or enquire through swindon.gov.uk – Licensing. For events and one-off stalls, see licensing rules for events in Swindon.
Food and safety
If you sell food, you must comply with food safety law and may need to register with the council’s environmental health team. Separate from street trading consent, this applies to all food businesses. The licensing and environmental health pages on the council website have the details.
Information correct as of February 2026. Licensing rules can change. Check swindon.gov.uk before trading.