Temporary changes to planning and licensing procedures became law in 2020. Pavement Licences introduced a fast-track process to make it easier for premises serving food and drink to seat and serve customers as lockdown restrictions were lifted and social distancing guidelines remained in place.
On the 10 August 2023 The Business and Planning Act 2020 (Pavement Licences) (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2023 came into force. These regulations extended the existing Pavement Licence provisions to 30 September 2024.
Please note that a renewal option for Pavement Licences was not incorporated into the Business and Planning Act 2020. Therefore, all current licence holders must apply for a new licence as it is not possible to renew.
Any licence granted after 10 August 2023 will be valid until 30 September 2024.
How to apply
If you wish to utilise the pavement for trading you will need to complete and submit a Pavement Licence Application Form. Please download and complete the form, then save and send via email to licensing@merton.gov.uk. The application must comprise of a completed application form, fee, a photograph of the consultation notice correctly filled in and displayed, and any other supporting documents that are required.
You must pay the application fee of £100 when submitting an application. This is non-refundable.
Pay online for a Pavement Licence
You can also pay by telephone on 020 8545 3969. To pay by bank transfer, please contact us for details.
By submitting the application, you are agreeing to the Standard Conditions for Pavement Licences
Consultation
The application process requires a 7 day public consultation which beings on the day after an application is submitted (completed form and payment received). There is a legal requirement to place a clear public notice in an area easily visible to passers-by. You may use this Site Notice Template to assist you.
Street trading licences
For traders with existing street trading licences for forecourts, catering vans and market stalls, you will continue to be licensed as a street trader and you should renew your licence as normal.
Policy
Government guidance
GOV.UK guidance: pavement licences
Contact us
For any further queries, please get in touch with our licensing team at licensing@merton.gov.uk and we will respond to the enquiries as soon as we can.