Illegal Street Trading
'Fly traders' or people selling goods on the streets without a licence create obstructions for pedestrians and are also unfair competition to legitimate traders and businesses.
This illegal activity can range from sellers of counterfeit DVD's to roasted peanuts. Unlicensed traders almost always sell illegal goods of dubious quality. If you buy from them, you will not be able to get your money back. If they are selling food, there is no way of telling if it is safe to eat.
Southwark council runs six fun, safe and legal street markets across the borough. If you want to trade, you can easily get involved and apply for an occasional traders licence. Find out more about becoming a market trader.
Tackling the problem
Illegal street traders are not tolerated within Southwark and if caught, risk prosecution, a fine of £1000 and loss of all their goods. During 2003 Southwark Council seized goods worth over £275,000 and prosecuted and fined 47 illegal street traders.
Successful illegal street trading prosecutions in 2004
| Month |
Number of prosecutions |
| January |
11 |
| February |
4 |
| March |
4 |
| April |
3 |
| May |
0 |
| June |
3 |
| July |
11 |
| August |
9 |
| September |
6 |
| October |
11 |
| November |
2 |
| December |
3 |
| Total: |
67 |
Contact us
If you have any information about illegal street traders, please contact us using the details below.
Tel: 020 7525 2000 (24 hours)
environment@southwark.gov.uk
Enforcement team
30-34 Penrose Street
London SE17 3DW
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