The Shops (Sunday Trading) (Northern Ireland) Order 1997
All shops are free to trade on Sunday. In terms of opening hours the legislation distinguishes between "small" and "large" shops. Large shops, being shops with more than 280 square metres of relevant floor area can open any time between 1pm and 6pm (except Easter Sunday or when Christmas day falls on a Sunday). Small shops being shops with not more than 280 square metres can open any time. Certain large shops can trade without restriction. These are as follow:
- A farm shop selling its own produce;
- Shops selling motor or cycle supplies and accessories;
- Any registered pharmacy - but only for the sale of medicinal products or medical/surgical supplies;
- Shops in an airport for people using the airport;
- Shops at a railway or bus station;
- Shops at motorway service areas;
- Petrol filling stations; and
- Goods sold from an exhibition stand.
The Order provides employment protection measures for shop employees relating to Sunday working.
For more information contact your local District Council which is responsible for enforcing Sunday Trading controls.
