do we really have the right to sell lily of the valley in the street?

If sales on public roads are, in principle, prohibited to individuals in France, on May 1st the sale of lily of the valley is an exception. Explanations.

On May 1, Labor Day, tradition dictates that we offer lily of the valley to loved ones as a sign of “lucky charm”. Every year, sales stands run by individuals multiply in the French streets. A practice that is nevertheless very supervised. Franceinfo reminds you of the main rules.

In small quantities and without packaging

In France, all street sales are in principle subject to authorization. This is the case of “unboxing sales” which allow individuals to sell goods during garage sales, flea markets or clearance sales. Street selling, without road permission issued by local authorities, can be punished by six months’ imprisonment and a fine of more than 3,000 euros. Only the sale of lily of the valley is an exception and only on 1^er May of each year. An individual or an association can then set up their stand, provided they respect a few rules.

Before setting up, the seller must familiarize himself with the regulations at his town hall. The sale of lily of the valley on 1^er May is, in general, governed by municipal decrees. It is generally specified that only the sale of wild lily of the valley picked in the woods is authorized – be careful however, picking in the woods is regulated, the flora belonging to the owner of the plot. It is obligatory to sell it in small quantities, in sprigs and without adding other flowers to the bouquet. It is also generally specified that the sprig of lily of the valley must be sold without packaging.

Away from florists

The location of the sales stand is also very supervised. It is prohibited to set up near a florist and to use tables, trestles or chairs which could materialize the point of sale. The installation of the stand must not constitute a danger or inconvenience to pedestrians and vehicles.

In the event of non-compliance with the regulations, the seller is liable to a fine of 300 euros: a fixed amount which can be reduced to 250 euros and increased to 600 euros. If this fine is not honored within 45 days following the date of sending the notice of infringement or its finding, the individual is then liable to a fine of 3,750 euros and six months’ imprisonment. imprisonment. Furthermore, article 446-3 of the penal code specifies that the police can, in addition, destroy or confiscate the sprigs of lily of the valley. In 2023, the sale of sprigs of lily of the valley in the street represented 4% of sales, compared to 42% among florists, according to a Kantar study.