The new Casual Trading Bye Laws for the Kildare County Council (Athy Municipal District) have now been officially adopted. The bye-laws were formally approved at the municipal-district meeting on 20 October 2025 and the public notice was issued on 28 October 2025.
These new regulations will come into effect from Tuesday 18 November 2025, giving traders time to prepare and apply for licences under the new arrangements.
Official notice: https://kildarecoco.ie/Adverts/NoticeofMakingofBye-laws2025.html
Full bye laws PDF: https://iomst.ie/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Casual-Trading-ByeLaws-Athy-Adopted-20.10.25.pdf
Key Trading Locations and Times
The new laws outline the exact designated areas where casual trading is permitted in Athy, along with set days and times. These are:
Emily Square
• Tuesdays from 07.00 to 14.30
• Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays from 08.00 to 17.00
Barrow Quay
• Tuesdays from 07.00 to 14.30
Edmund Rice Square
• Saturdays from 09.00 to 15.00
These locations are now the only recognised casual trading areas within the Athy Municipal District. Any trader wishing to operate here must hold a valid casual trading licence.
Licence Requirements and Pitch Fees
To trade in any of the designated areas you will need a licence issued under the new bye laws. Fees are set according to pitch size:
• Pitches up to 3 metres by 3 metres: €100
• Pitches 3 to 6 metres long (up to 3 metres deep): €200
• Pitches 6 to 9 metres long (up to 3 metres deep): €300
A separate Event Licence Fee of €50 per day may apply if trading at a special event. Seasonal opportunities, including Christmas trading, may also require an event licence depending on the organiser’s arrangements.
Stall and Set Up Standards
The bye laws outline what type of stall or structure is acceptable. Traders must use a stand, table, marquee, stall or suitable vehicle. Informal set ups such as placing goods on the ground are not allowed. The aim is to maintain a tidy and safe trading environment that supports both traders and visitors.
Other rules include:
• No amplified sound without permission.
• Safe use of generators and equipment.
• A requirement to display your licence number clearly at your pitch.
Compliance is important because breaking the rules can result in removal from the trading area or suspension of your licence.
Special Event Licences and Seasonal Trading
The new regulations allow for additional temporary licences for festivals, themed markets, Christmas events and similar activities. These licences can create great opportunities for traders who offer seasonal lines, gift items or food products suited to busy festive weekends.
The bye laws also contain a specific reference to Christmas trading. Certain Christmas themed goods may be permitted under a short seasonal exemption, although traders should still confirm the requirements with Kildare County Council to ensure compliance.
What Happens if a Pitch Becomes Unavailable
If your designated pitch becomes unavailable due to works, public events or health and safety reasons, the Council may offer an alternative location wherever possible. If no alternative is available for an extended period, the bye laws provide for pro rata refunds. This offers some reassurance for traders who rely on regular positions.
Ongoing Concerns and Legal Questions
It is worth noting that some traders and local commentators have raised concerns about how the bye laws were adopted. Under the Casual Trading Act 1995, the power to make bye laws sits with the county council. Some critics argue that the procedure followed within the municipal district may not fully align with that requirement.
More information: https://www.kildare-nationalist.ie/life/are-the-new-athy-trading-byelaws-actually-valid_arid-77722.html
Until any formal clarification is issued, traders should continue to follow the bye laws as published and keep a close eye on developments.
What Traders Should Do Now
Here is a simple checklist to help you prepare:
• Review the full bye laws so you understand the rules for your trading area.
• Apply for your licence as early as possible.
• Make sure your stall set up meets the required standards.
• Ensure you have current public liability insurance in place.
• Check if you need a special event licence for any festive or themed markets.
• Monitor updates from Kildare County Council as the laws come into effect.
For more Information, Guides Help, Support or Advice. Get in touch with IOMST and become a member today!
Grainne & Greg
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