Street Trading Policy 2026-29
The purpose of the Street Trading Policy is to provide a single set of basic rules which will be used to inform the various decision making processes for street trading with the aim of ensuring street trading remains safe, well‑managed, and considerate for residents, traders, and businesses.
The council has a statutory (legal) responsibility to license anyone trading on the street. This includes market stalls, kiosks or other trading units, such as food trailers. Licensing traders helps to:
- regulate the condition and health and safety of all traders
- protect our residents from unscrupulous sellers
- support markets as diverse community hubs
- provide inclusive and affordable workspaces for residents
- add vitality to our local economies
The policy aims to ensure that there is a clear and consistent framework for regulating street trading in Maidstone. Following a review of the Council's policy it has been updated to include:
- stronger environmental requirements (waste, plastics, generators)
- clearer responsibilities for consent holders
- new discretionary provisions for temporary events
- updated officer titles and decision‑making processes
All changes to the policy are in green bold in the draft policy.
We are now seeking your feedback on the proposed changes.
How to get involved
- Read the draft Street Trading Policy 2026-29
- Survey- click here to start the survey and give your feedback.
- Survey takes: 3-6 minutes to complete
- Survey closes: 6 May 2026.
What Next
The results of the consultation will considered by the Senior Licensing Officer and a further report will be brought before Members for consideration at the Licensing Committee scheduled for 11 June 2026.
