Markets and approved isolated trading spots

There are approved locations across the borough where you can sell products or commercial services to the general public. These are:

• Lewisham High Street
• Catford Broadway
• Deptford High Street
• Douglas Way (Deptford)
• Giffin Square (Deptford)
• Giffin Street (Deptford)
• Venner Square (Sydenham)
• Queensthorpe Square (Sydenham)
• Blackheath
• Grove Park Cemetery

We want to make street trading accessible to entrepreneurs across the borough. If you have an idea for a new trading spot in the borough, we’re open to suggestions. You can email markets@lewisham.gov.uk to share your ideas.

Ways to start selling on our markets 

• initially, the only way to get a pitch is by casual trading
• you can also apply to trade at one of the Council’s market events

You can only apply for a permanent licence after an initial period of casual trading. 

• a permanent street trading licence is normally only considered after an applicant has completed at least six consecutive months of regular trading on a casual licence
• you may be an organiser who runs seasonal markets i.e. during Christmas. You would apply under an Occasional Sales licence. You can learn more about this licence type below.
  
  

The application process 

The application process is currently paper-based so you will need to download the file and open it in Microsoft Word to complete. The application form can be downloaded below.

Individual traders

1. Fill and submit in the application form together with:

a. Proof of address – two documents (i.e. utility bill, HMRC letter) 
b. Proof of Right to Work – i.e. N.I number, Share Code
c. Proof of I.D. – Passport, Drivers licence 
Food traders will be required to provide the following upon application
d. Proof of registration with your local Environmental Health Department
e. Food Hygiene certificate Level 3 
f. Sample menu listing the food you will be selling 
g. Photos of your set-up (i.e. trailer, gazebo…). Include dimensions

2. Application reviewed by Markets Team.

3. Applications will be contacted on the outcome of their application via email within 7 working days. 

4. Successful applicants will need to do the following:
a. Provide proof of Public Liability Insurance via email
b. Call the Markets Office to complete your registration and pay the non-refundable registration fee of £14.80

5. Once the registration process is complete you can call the office to purchase casual trading vouchers. These can be purchased in bulk, up to a maximum of 1 month in advance. Unused vouchers expire after 2 months.

How to purchase a casual trading licence once you are registered

Call the Markets Office on and provide your name, the market you’ve been approved for, and the quantity of casual trading licences you wish to purchase.

Occasional sales or events

You need a licence if you wish to hold:

• a temporary market

• a car boot sale

• a street event on a market area

You should give at least 42 days’ notice, and include a risk assessment with your application.

Dependent on your market or event, you may need a Temporary Event Notice or a road closure. The Markets Service cannot process these types of licences, but where relevant we may need to see proof you have one before we can licence stalls at your market or street event.

If you are thinking of organising an Occasional Market, please contact us via markets@lewisham.go.uk to discuss your options as these range based on many factors, for example, number of traders.