Norwich market and market rights - what you need to know

What counts as a market?

A market is defined as a gathering of buyers and sellers, and includes:

• car boot sales
• craft fairs
• antique fairs
• farmers markets
• any event with 5 or more stalls or pitches

Do you need a Market Rights Licence?

Yes - if you're planning to hold a market in Norwich, you must apply for a Market Rights Licence, even if:

• you already have other permissions (e.g. planning consent, Temporary Event Notice)
• the market is on public or private land, indoors or outdoors
• it’s for charity or part of a larger event

Unlicensed markets may face legal action, so it’s important to get approval first.

Apply for a licence

Apply for a Market Rights Licence

What happens after you apply?

If your application is successful, you’ll receive a Licence Agreement outlining:

• terms and conditions
• any restrictions (e.g. number of stalls, types of goods)
• payment details

Licence fees

• commercial markets: £4.50 per stall per day (example: 50 stalls for 7 days = £1,575)
• non-commercial/charity markets: £2.50 per stall per day (example: 50 stalls for 7 days = £875)

Fees are only payable after your application is approved.

What we look for in applications

We assess:

• type of market and goods sold
• purpose and community benefit
• date, time, and frequency
• number of stalls
• location and proximity to other markets
• safety and operational plans
• your experience and reputation
• feedback from stakeholders

You may also need to provide:

• health and safety plans
• road closure or planning consents
• Temporary Event Notices (TENs) or premises licence
• written permission from venue owners
• commitment to the Market Fair or Real Deal Charter

Planning a large or recurring market?

You might be asked to:

• attend meetings with council officers
• submit business and operational plans (covering trader management, traffic, waste, and nuisance control)
• join Safety Advisory Group meetings if using council-owned public spaces