What License is Needed for Ice Cream Bike Business

by Janos

Hi my name is Janos

I would like to start the mobile catering business with my ice cream bike.

I want sell a scoop of ice cream in the street or the park. My question is, which license is necessary to start this business, and do you need the hand wash/food and hygiene exam

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Feb 02, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Street Trading Licence for Ice Cream Sales
by: David-

When You Need a Street Trading Licence for Ice Cream Sales

Selling directly to the public – If you’re selling ice cream to customers on the street, in a car park, or from private land (unless an event organiser’s licence covers you), you’ll likely need a Street Trading Licence from your local council.

Trading on private land – Even if the landowner gives you permission, many councils still require a licence. You’ll need a written letter of authority from the landowner to submit with your application.

Regular markets or car boots – Some markets or boot sales have an umbrella licence covering all traders. If this applies, you won’t need a separate licence, but always check with the event organiser.

When You DON’T Need a Street Trading Licence

Private events – If you’ve been hired for a party, wedding, corporate event, or festival and are being paid directly by the organiser (rather than selling to the public), you don’t need a street trading licence. This is similar to catering vans providing food for private functions.

Other Important Requirements

Food Business Registration – You must register your business with your local council at least 28 days before trading. This is free and ensures you meet food safety standards.

Food Hygiene & Safety Certificates – You (and any staff) will need Level 2 Food Hygiene training, and your setup must meet health and safety regulations.

Handwashing Facilities – If you’re selling soft-serve ice cream, you’ll need handwashing facilities in your unit, such as a sink with hot running water or an approved alternative.

Final Tip
If unsure, always check with your local council. Rules can vary, and it’s better to get clear approval before investing time and money into your setup.

Hope that helps, and best of luck with your ice cream business
Jun 27, 2024
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starstarstarstarstar 		Street-Trading or Pedlars Licence / Cert required.
by: Anonymous

Ice Cream is a foodstuff and as such you will need a street trading licence if you intending to trade directly to the public, whether or not you are on private land (then you will also need a letter of authority from the landowner for your licence application) - unless you are already covered by an umbrella licence held by the event coordinator at such venues as car boots / Markets, Fetes, etc.

You can however serve ice-cream at private parties or any event where you are contracted / paid by the organiser or person holding the party, wedding, event, in the same way food catering vans etc do, without a licence of any sort.

You must however, as has been said already be registered as a food business with your local council and have your food safety & Hygiene particulars in order.

If your selling soft-serve you will also need hand washing facilities as part of your set up
Jun 09, 2011
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starstarstarstarstar 		Ice Cream Bike Business
by: David

Hi Janos,

As you will be selling soft scoop ice cream, you will have to contact your local council to register your business.

You will probably have to apply for either a hawkers or street trading licence, depending on your local council requirements.

If you intend to sell on private land such as car boot sales, markets, forecourts, fetes, or fairs then you don?t need a licence to trade, just the permission from the landowners.

If you intend to sell at your council run Local Park, street then again contact your local council who will be able to advise you what license is required and if it?s even permitted.

To sell only pre-packed ice cream or ice lollies you would not require a hand wash system. But since the idea is to sell fresh scoop ice cream, you will be in direct contact and touching food that will be consumed by your customers.

This may require the use of a hand wash system, food and hygiene certificate; again confirm this requirement with your local council.

It?s also a good idea to get some Product/Public liability Insurance to cover you against the public and also think about getting your bike insured.

Best of luck with your ice cream bike business

David


p.s Get my free guide on Starting a Mobile Catering Business Guide

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