Street Collecting: What Are the Rules?

What counts as a street collection?

A street collection happens when someone asks the public for money or sells items for charity in a public place. This includes standing with a collection bucket or selling small goods like badges or pins where the proceeds go to a charitable cause.

The rules apply whether you are collecting on pavements, in shopping areas, outside railway stations, or in any other place the public has access to. If you are asking passers-by to donate on the spot, you are likely carrying out a street collection.

Different rules may apply if the collection occurs on private property or in enclosed spaces like shopping centres, where you would need permission from the property owner rather than the council.

Do you need a permit?

In England and Wales, you will usually need a permit from the local council before carrying out a street collection on a public highway. Each council has its own application process. Council websites typically have application forms available, though practices vary and some authorities may require postal or in person applications. Processing times differ between councils, so apply well in advance of your planned collection date.

Popular locations, such as busy high streets or town centres, may have limited slots available. Some councils allocate specific dates to different charities, while others operate on a first come, first served basis. This means you might not get your first choice of date or location.

There is usually no fee for a street collection permit, but you should check with your local authority to confirm. Conditions attached to the permit may include:

• Restrictions on the times you can collect
• Limits on the number of collectors allowed
• Requirements for collectors to wear identification badges
• Rules about where you can and cannot stand

Failing to obtain a permit, or breaching its conditions, can result in the collection being shut down. Repeated breaches can particularly affect your ability to secure permits in the future.

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Rules collectors must follow

Even with a valid permit, collectors must follow certain rules of conduct. These are designed to keep collections orderly and protect the public from harassment.

Collectors must ensure they do not obstruct pedestrian pathways or block access to shop entrances. They must not pursue people who have already declined to give, and they should avoid collecting in groups that may appear intimidating to the public. The general principle is that members of the public should be free to walk past without pressure.

All collectors should carry identification showing the name of the charity and, where required, the permit number. Collection containers must be sealed and clearly labelled. After the collection, money should be counted in the presence of at least two people and recorded accurately.

Many councils require charities to submit a return afterwards, stating how much was collected. This helps councils monitor how collections are being run and ensures accountability. If you are collecting donor information, you will also need to consider data protection requirements.

Where to find more information

The specific rules for street collections can differ significantly between councils, so always check with your local authority before planning a collection. Council websites typically have a section covering charitable collections and licensing.

In Scotland, local councils have their own requirements similar to England and Wales. In Northern Ireland, street collections require a permit from the Police Service of Northern Ireland rather than the local council.

The Charity Commission and GOV.UK provide general guidance on fundraising regulations and good practice. If you are unsure about your legal obligations, these provide useful initial guidance.