Need to know Birmingham cake shed rules - as some councils start charging for driveway business. Some councils have told bakers that they have to stump up the money for a street trading licence if they want to run a cake shed - but what are the rules in Birmingham?
The Rise of Cake Sheds
Cake sheds have exploded in popularity over the last few years. Entrepreneurial bakers conjure sweet treats from their kitchen and sell them in colourful and cute little sheds on their own driveways. Unstaffed and run on an honesty box system, this little side hustle has been primarily the domain of stay at home mums looking for some extra cash. But some councils across the country want a slice of the pie and have said they want cooks to stump up for a street trading licence at £1,000 a pop. We have a look here at the issues.
What Do I Need to Open a Cake Shed?
Talent, a brightly painted shed and word of mouth or a good social media following. In addition the trader needs to register as a food business and then food hygiene and safety inspections would be required at the locations where the food is prepared and sold. Strict consumer protection laws apply to food sales, so every single bake must be individually packaged and labelled. You’ll also need Public Liability Insurance.
Do I Need a Street Trading Licence?
Bassettlaw District Council, in Nottinghamshire, told a group of cake shed owners they needed to stump up £1,000 for a street trading licence or face a fine. This move has now been paused following the objections. But Maidstone Borough Council in Kent has told home-bakers that they must pay for the licence.
What About Birmingham City Council?
No, not for now. When asked, a BBC spokeswoman said: "We know that 'cake sheds' are a growing trend in the country, and recognise the community benefit these enterprises can have. We are considering our options about what we can do to ensure consistency and fairness for businesses, as well as ensuring safety and protection for the public. Currently the trader must register as a food business, and then food hygiene and safety inspections would be required at the locations where the food is prepared and sold. In addition, we are clarifying if street trading consent would need to be obtained."
How Do They Run?
Customers pop some money in an envelope or pay using PayPal etc. Most sheds are fitted with CCTV. Follow birminghammail: Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
