House to house collections guidance
Important notice: Delays in response times
Due to current staff shortages, we are experiencing delays in responding to enquiries. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding during this time. Please be assured that we are making every effort to process your application as soon as possible.
Thank you for your cooperation.
Do I need a licence?
Under the House to House Collections Act 1939 and the House to House Regulations 1947 a licence is required to collect money or articles door to door, which you intend to sell at a later date.
You will need to apply for a licence if you are a:
- small charity
- local group, eg scouts, girl guides.
Authorised collection areas in Derby
A house to house collection licence will allow you to collect money or articles, door to door in areas shown within the black line on the house to house collections area map.
No cold calling zones
We publish a list of 'no cold calling zones' in Derby where house to house collections are prohibited.
How much does a licence cost?
House to house collection licences can be obtained free of charge.
How long does a licence last?
A house to house collections licence can be issued for different lengths of time up to a maximum of one year.
Fines and penalties
If you start house to house collections before obtaining a permit you may face:
- up to 6 months in prison
- a fine of up to £1,000.
An additional fine of up to £200 could also be issued to anyone collecting on your behalf who does not give their name, address and signature to police officer when asked to do so.
Privacy notice
The Licensing Team is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy when you use our services.
Please view Licensing Team Privacy Notices for further information. Printed copies are available on request.