An “outdated, inefficient, and unnecessary” requirement for shops in Jersey to obtain permits to open on Sundays and public holidays could be removed.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel has put forward legislative changes to get rid of what he described as “an administrative burden that no longer reflects the needs of businesses, consumers, or the wider economy”.
If approved, he will repeal existing regulations which have been in place since 2010 and 2011 – which allowed smaller shops greater flexibility and exempted certain businesses from permit requirements, while imposing limitations on larger stores.
Deputy Morel argued that the current system “imposes unnecessary costs and bureaucracy, with little demonstrable benefit”.
“The need for permits is widely regarded as outdated, inefficient, and unnecessary in 2025,” he said.
“Multiple government reports have identified the 2010 law as a barrier to business, and multiple factors have changed, particularly in the post-Covid context.”
He also contended that the proposed change “empowers businesses to respond flexibly to consumer demand” and supports the government’s strategic priorities of “removing barriers to business” while “contributing to a continued effort to improve placemaking both in town and islandwide”.
“The rescindment will also provide equal opportunity for all shops (not just permit holders) to capture footfall and adapt for their customers,” the minister stated, adding: “There is real potential for increased vibrancy, and for the stimulation of economic activity on historically ‘quiet’ days.”
Deputy Morel said that repealing the current legislation “represents the simplest and most effective route to remove a known barrier to business”.
But he highlighted that enforcement mechanisms would be retained through existing legislation, such as the nuisance law.
“The repeal is not only desirable to businesses, but necessary,” the minister continued.
“It reflects a shared understanding that the 2010 law is outdated and that a more agile, market-led approach is required to support Jersey’s evolving retail and visitor economy.”
The proposition is due to be debated during the States sitting beginning on Tuesday 24 March.
