Private Markets

Our Private Markets policy introduced on 1 April 2024 helps us to positively influence the nature and type of markets across the district.

The Private Markets policy provides a transparent and efficient way to deal with enquiries to hold private markets and the required application process.

A vibrant and varied market offer brings many benefits. It allows us to provide opportunities for communities to come together socially. It give small businesses another platform to sell their goods and services. It also enables voluntary and charitable groups to raise funds.

As the market authority, we aim to maintain consumer confidence by ensuring quality standards are maintained at all markets, not just ones the Council directly provides. This includes met conditions to protect public safety, consider any nuisance issues, highways, and other regulatory concerns.

If you’re considering holding a private market, you will need to apply for a Private Markets license. This could be a car boot, table top sale, wedding fayre, Christmas market, famers market, antiques fayre. If you are unsure if you need to apply for a license, make an enquiry using our webform.

Who can apply?

Anyone who wants to hold a market with 5 or more stalls or vendors must apply for a private markets licence.

How do I apply?

You need to complete the online form below.

In line with Section 37 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, you must give at least one month’s notice of any intention to hold a private market. If your market is taking place across several dates, you should give the date the first market will take place.

How much does a licence cost?

There is a charge to get a private market license. The charge amount will depend on the size, type, and frequency of market you are holding. You must make payment in full before the first licenced market takes place.

Please complete the form to submit your application. We aim to respond within 3 working days.

Granting private markets licences is at the complete discretion of the Council. We will only grant licenses on payment of the appropriate licence fee.

If you have any queries relating to license costs, email letstalkmarkets@wakefield.gov.uk.

Before you apply

You may need to provide copies of the following:

  • letter of Consent
  • plan of Site
  • public Liability Insurance

What if I don't have electronic copies?

Photos or scans of documents are acceptable, providing the relevant information is clear.

If you're unable to provide electronic versions of these documents, then you cannot apply online. In this case, you should apply by email at letstalkmarkets@wakefield.gov.uk.

Contact Us

Markets Payments and Allocations Team Castleford Market Office Carlton Street Castleford West Yorkshire WF10 1BE

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