I've been told that in Portland, OR, where I live, there's a city ordinance prohibiting busking if you can be heard (not "heard clearly or loudly"-- just "heard") 50 feet away, and that your instrument can be confiscated for violating that statute.

I don't know if they ever enforce that law by confiscating the instrument on the first offense or without discussion. But I find it interesting, not to mention ridiculous, that there is not the same kind of objection to boom boxes, loud conversations, leaf blowers, etc.!

I sure hope Dave gets his instrument back--without damage--promptly and that all municipalities will exercise some civility and common sense in passing and enforcing anti-music ordinances.

~SWO~