Street Trading Consent - Do I also need planning permission?


I have been approved for consent to trade in a street consent area. Do I need planning permission too. A catering trailer in a picnic spot.

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Nov 12, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Street Trading Consent vs Planning Permission
by: MobCater

Hello,

Getting Street Trading Consent from the council allows you to legally sell food or drinks in that area. But it doesn’t always replace planning permission.

You might also need planning permission if:

Your trailer stays in the same place most of the time (not just parked for the day).

You’re serving regularly at a fixed location (like a picnic spot, lay-by, or farm entrance).

You plan to keep signs, bins, or tables set up on the land.

If your trailer is moved away daily, and it’s not a permanent structure, many councils treat it as temporary use — so planning permission may not be needed. But rules vary between councils, especially for public picnic spots or parks.

Best thing to do: Call your local council’s planning department (the same one that gave you trading consent) and ask:

"Do I need planning permission for a mobile catering trailer that will trade at [location name]?"

They’ll tell you exactly what’s needed for that specific site. This offers the safest route to help you get on track. Let us know if you need anything else.


Disclaimer:
This is general guidance only. Always check with your local council and a qualified professional before trading.

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