Market Operator

Anyone who operates a private market where goods are offered for sale by more than one seller requires a Market Operator's Licence.

Do I need a licence?
Yes. If you want to run a private Market in Edinburgh.

A market operator's licence is not required for carrying on any of the following:  

• Functions held by a charitable, religious, youth recreational, community, political or similar organisations;
• Markets held only for the sale of livestock, fodder or grain. 
• Markets held by the council

Are you eligible to apply?
Anyone can apply for a Market Operator Licence.

How do I apply?
Applicants must complete a Market Operators Licence application form and submit it to the Licensing Section along with the appropriate fee.  You can also make and pay for an application on-line at ELMS.

An application must be:

• In writing (including electronically).
• Be signed by the applicant (including digital signature).

Applicants must also:

• Put up a site notice at or near the premises for 21 days beginning on the date the application is submitted to the Council. After the notice has been up for 21 days the applicant must sign the declaration at the foot of the notice and return it to the Council.

What does it cost?
Fee list - fees are non refundable

What information do I need to provide?
All information requested on the application form and four copies of a plan of the showing the layout of the market.

How is the application dealt with?
On receipt of a completed application form, accompanied by the appropriate fee, a copy of the application form will be sent to the Chief Constable and the Fire Authority .The application form is also sent to two Council departments -Services for Communities and City Development.

The authority will keep a record electronically of receipt of the application, the final decision, reasons for the decision, details of the terms of the licence and keep a record of any suspensions, variations of terms and surrender of licence.