Birmingham cake shed rules as some councils start charging for driveway business

Cake sheds have exploded in popularity, with bakers selling treats from brightly painted sheds on driveways. Some councils now require a street trading licence, often around £1,000 per licence, before sales can operate. Bassettlaw District Council in Nottinghamshire has demanded the fee, prompting a pause after objections, while Maidstone Borough Council in Kent also requires payment. Currently, Birmingham City Council has paused licensing while it studies options for consistency and safety. Traders must register as food businesses and comply with hygiene inspections, with packaging and labeling required and public liability insurance common. Many sheds use envelopes or online payments and CCTV.