Ice cream man fined thousands of pounds after repeatedly trading illegally

Mr Hacene Salmi of Oakleigh Avenue, Edgware, was convicted of street trading without the required consent and was ordered to pay the maximum fine as well as costs and a victim surcharge totalling £2,472.

On each occasion, between 2021 and 2024, Mr Salmi was reported to Three Rivers District Council licensing department by officers from Hertfordshire Constabulary. Despite previous warnings, Mr Salmi was again seen trading without a valid consent to trade and was spoken to by police officers.

Whilst Mr Salmi previously held a Street Trading Consent with the council, this expired in 2018, and despite multiple attempts to obtain one, he was unsuccessful.

The hearing took place at St Albans Magistrates Court in front of Stuart Jack and Michelle Moses on 21 May 2025.

Cllr Sarah Nelmes, Deputy Council Leader and Lead Member for General Public Services, said: “Despite being fully aware of the street trading requirements Mr Salmi had to adhere to, he decided to continue to trade illegally in our district, taking away business from licenced traders.

“Let this serve as a reminder that all individuals who wish to trade in our district must apply for the required consent to do so. We will not hesitate to take enforcement action on anyone trading illegally.”

Traders selling goods or items in a street, car park or any other outdoor area in the district, which is open to the public, need a valid street trading licence. Click here to find out more.