Apply for a catering vehicle licence (public highway)

Food can only be sold on the public highway in areas designated as 'consent streets' and you will need a licence to do so. All other roads are 'prohibited streets' and it is an offence to trade in them. Catering vehicles can include a:

  • stationary van
  • cart
  • barrow or other vehicle
  • portable stall

You can apply for a catering vehicle licence by downloading the application form and sending it to the Council, along with:

  • the license fee which is £586.50
  • a public liability insurance certificate with a minimum amount of £10m for any one incident if you intend selling hot food and drinks
  • your employees' liability insurance certificates where appropriate

The licence is valid for 12 months and cannot be granted to anyone under the age of 17 years. It is personal to the applicant and cannot be transferred to another person.

The Council will carry out any necessary checks before granting the licence.

Licence application form (PDF)