Apply for a charitable street collection permit
You need a permit if you intend to collect money or sell articles for charity in any:
- street
- public place, such as a shop doorway or car park
Money must be collected in sealed tins.
There is no fee for the permit, however, you could be fined £200 if you collect money for charity without a permit.
On 1 April 2024 we implemented a new policy that may affect your application. Before you apply, read our Charitable Collections Policy.
Who does not need a permit
You do not need a street collection permit if you’re collecting or selling as part of a business.
Before you begin
Contact [email protected] before you apply to check the availability of the dates you require.
What you'll need
You'll need to confirm if:
- you're applying as a business or individual
- the collection will be donated to charity or not
- the benefits of the collection benefit the organisation (or another organisation)
- you've applied previously
- you or someone associated has been convicted of a crime or offence
How to apply
You can apply now on GOV.UK.
If your application is denied
Email [email protected] for more information or advice.
Supply a return for a street collection
You must submit a returns form to us after the collection, showing:
- the amount of money collected
- any expenses
- a list of the collectors
Download and complete a charitable return form PDF, 319 KB
You can send the completed form by email to [email protected].
Help with your application
If you need any help with your application, email [email protected].