Busking permits (in various locations)

Subject: Busking permits
From: GUEST,weary traveller
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 12:01 PM

on some previous threads about busking, people mentioned that sometimes you need a license, or even need to audition

It might be useful to pool our knowledge of the regulations in various places -- even if you prefer to flout them

In Belgium you usually need to register with the police ... I only busked without permission In Antwerpen I was stopped and warned by police (and friendlier people had warned me about the rules). In Oostend by the ferry I had no problems

I don't know what the rules are in Norway, but I had no problems there

Can anyone tell me about the Netherlands, especially Amsterdam?

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Bert
Date: 17 Dec 02 - 07:27 PM

I met a guy who bought a street performer's licence for New Hope, Pennsylvania. And the police still moved him off the street.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: alanabit
Date: 18 Dec 02 - 07:58 AM

The rules in Amsterdam have been different every time I've been there. Most of the rest of Holland is usually pretty open, but it has been a long time - over fifteen years - since I last made decent money there. Germany varies from town to town, but one which is not worth going to any more is München. You can only do it legally for half a day a week there and it is too far from a high paying town to make it worth the detour. Every Swiss town has different regulations. You normally need to go the the cop shop first. Zürich is right out. It is strictly forbidden and when they nick you they hang you. (If you look poor they hang you twice. The Swiss don't like poverty). Apart from Vienna and Vorarlberg (east Austria), it's pretty open in that wonderful land. There are also some very good festivals for buskers there.In Denmark all street busking is officially banned, although you may get away with it in some places. Sweden can be wonderful. Never ever look poor in Italy, Spain or Portugal. Two of those countries have had Fascist governments within living memory and not all of the old policemen have retired yet!PM me if you want to hear more about busking central Europe. Good luck.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Trevor
Date: 18 Dec 02 - 12:22 PM

We were out in Shrewsbury last weekend. I phoned the town centre management who told me that the licensing system there had been suspended so we wouldn't be breaking the law if we performed on the street, but that I'd better inform the town council licensing people just so that they were aware of what we were doing. The licensing people told me that as the licensing scheme had been suspended we could do what liked but that we wouldn't be able to make a street collection. When I asked her what that meant she said she didn't know, and that maybe collecting money in a guitar case on the ground wasn't a street collection. She suggested that we did it anyway and 'see what happens'. When I asked her 'see what happens by who', she said she didn't know. When we turned up the place was full of Sally Ann, excruciating fiddlers and blokes with a whistle and dog so we sent our most respectable looking colleague to ask if we could perform in the shopping mall. As that is private property the owners can apparently do whatever they want. Outcome, three hours later, £135.00 for Medecins sans Frontiers. Wouldn't want it to be too easy would we!!

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Maryrrf
Date: 18 Dec 02 - 06:21 PM

What about busking in Scotland and Ireland. I've seen plenty of folks doing it - anybody know the rules there?

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 02 - 07:44 PM

In the US, I think it varies by local ordinance and custom. I happen to know a little about Minneapolis because there was a lawsuit about busking a few years back which was covered in the newspapers. The city council had first passed an ordinance saying you had to get a license, and then refused to grant any licenses. One musician, who had been busking for years before the law was passed, and who had applied for a license and been turned down, sued the city and won. A judge ruled the city had to issue the license unless they could show cause why not. (I have no idea what kind of thing the judge would have accepted as a valid reason to refuse the license.) They issued the license, and I think the guy still plays to this day. He plays a conga drum and sings on Nicollet Mall in summer.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: GUEST,Philippa
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 08:48 AM

Wales: A couple of years ago I busked in Llandudno, Aberyswyth, Cardigan and Holyhead, Wales and I had no problems. The police kept an eye out, but didn't approach.

A friend of mine gave me a bi-lingual "Côd Arferion - Adloniant ar Stryd / Code of Practice - Street Entertainment" which he was given in a larger town. I think it was Swansea, though I know he also busked in Bangor. I don't know whether he had to signanything attesting to his agreement with the code. It is fairly sensible, starting off "Fel rheol, bydd chwyddo cerddoriaeth neu ganu yn annerbyniol, yn enwedig lle bo uchder y sain yn achosi cwyn. Dylai didan wyr stryd ystried lleoliad y gweithgarwch wrth benderfynu lefel y swm a greir gan eu hadloniant. / Normally, amplification of music or singing will be unacceptable ..." and going on to say that entertainers, and the crowds they (hopefully!) attract, should not cause any obstructions, shouldn't be near public telephones, etc. Provision no. 4 is "Musical entertainment should not take place for more than two hours at any one location. It should not be repeated at that location or within 50 metres of it within three hours." The eigth and final item on the list reminds entertainers that they need a street trading licence if they wish to sell items such as pre-recorded cassettes. I would think that regulation is true of most places, though it may not be much enforced.

Ireland- no problems Derry, Limerick but restrictions in Dublin I believe

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Dave Bryant
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 09:02 AM

The Covent Garden area of London did require busking permits - I used to have one. These were issued free of charge, but an audition was required to prove that you were good enough. Performers then had to book their slot with the duty organiser. I don't know if this has changed, but I expect that the required standard is higher than it was in my day !

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: BanjoRay
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 12:11 PM

I'm intending to do a little busking in Doncaster to raise some money for the young son of a friend who needs to go to the Peto Institute in Hungary for a long time. I made some inquiries with a policeman friend, and he told me today that there would be no problem. You go to Scarborough House on Chequer Road and fill in a form, and they give you a permit. Apparantly, if they think you're good entertainment they'll even give you some expenses! That implies an audition - ooer!
Cheers
Ray

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Marion
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 01:07 PM

Alanabit, how do they know if you busk more than half a day a week in Munich?

In Toronto, busking on the street is fine; the only confrontation I've had was with a bank security guard. You need to do an audition and buy a licence to play on the subway, but some find it worth the risk to busk there without a licence.

In Ottawa (Ontario, Canada) most of the street is fine, including the Byward Market area, but you need a licence to busk on the Sparks Street pedestrian mall.

Any experiences in Prague or elsewhere in the Czech Republic, anyone?

Marion

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: alanabit
Date: 19 Dec 02 - 02:38 PM

They know because you have to get a "Sonderbenutzungserlaubnis" to play and you can only get one for half a day a week. The police have strict instructions to clear the town of any musicians who do not have one. On the whole, if a businessman, resident or even stallholder orders a policeman to remove a busker, the policeman has to do it. However, as long as you don't annoy them, most policemen in most towns are not on a mission to persecute buskers. Even if they have to come, they do not usually race to the scene of the "crime" with blue lights flashing. You don't need to be a folk hero to busk here!

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Marion
Date: 13 Jan 03 - 03:14 PM

Thanks Alanabit. How much hassle is involved in getting a Sonder thingy for Munich? Half a day may be all I want to busk there anyway.
My other question about Germany (Munich and elsewhere) is, what risks are involved in busking without a Sonder thingy? Would I just be asked to leave, or would I be deported or executed or something?

Who's been busking in France? Any advice on good towns, legal issues?

Thanks, Marion

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: alanabit
Date: 13 Jan 03 - 03:41 PM

In München, when I got one back in 1984 (it is still licensed) you had to get up early in the morning and get in the queue at the "Rathaus". I assume your sister speaks German, so she can make a couple of telephone calls to the "Stadtverwaltung" for you to find out. In most German towns you do not require a licence. I used to love playing in Passau and Nürnberg, which in addition to being lovely cities, are only a morning's train ride from München. The uniformed cops are unlikely to bother you much, even if you are in breach of local byelaws. As long as you are polite and upfront with them, they won't give you much trouble. I have had policeman remove drunks from my show, request encores, compliment me, throw money and even tell the crowd off for being too thrifty. That won't all happen to you on the same day, but you do not need to go out worried about them. If anybody who is not in uniform comes to ask questions, ask them politely but firmly to show their ID. Some towns I have enjoyed playing in the South are Regensburg, Ingolstadt, Passau, Nürnberg, Freiberg and Würzburg. In the North I like Aachen (only evenings), Köln, Dortmund, Essen and almost anywhere in the Ruhrgebiet. If you promise on your Granny's virtue not to reveal them to anyone else, I'll let you know about a couple of my secret small towns near here. However, I'm buggered if I'm posting them on an open forum!

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Marion
Date: 15 Jan 03 - 11:30 AM

Alanabit, the whole reason I got into music was so that I wouldn't have to get up early in the morning! I think I'll just go the outlaw route and see what happens.

My secret small towns are Westport and Perth, Ontario. But I will PM you for your secrets.

Marion

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: alanabit
Date: 15 Jan 03 - 03:10 PM

This is what age and experience do to you Marion. Once you have had children, you are grateful for a couple of hours sleep at any time of day or night! You are in time for busking if you get to most town centres by ten or eleven. I guess that München will have to wait to hear you until you are ready to do the concert halls!

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: hacksawbob
Date: 15 Jan 03 - 03:36 PM

Busked around the U.k. mainly in the North West with mixed results. I've never been moved on by the Police. Usually a high street which initially may seem open season, suddnely becomes very hostile once you get an instrument out. Beggars/homeless people frequntly see a stretch of high street as their patch and will defend it strongly. Preston was the worst for this. Pivate security guards sre the next problem. Quite often a shopping center will own the pavement outside and will threaten to call the police if you dont move. Add keeping a healthy distance from other buskers and there's not much high street left.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: alanabit
Date: 15 Jan 03 - 04:53 PM

I would check the legality of the security guard's claims there mate. Even if the Old Bill do come (and they often have to if businessmen give the order) they don't often come with flashing blue lights to nick buskers. I never back down to beggars. They are in a different line of business.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: winterchild
Date: 15 Jan 03 - 05:08 PM

In Charlotte, NC, I don't think they permit it (or else it's not worth it); the city is fussy about keeping its sidewalks clear (very boring city culturally) and I've just realized I've never seen any buskers or street musicians there!
That's what you get when you let the banks take over your city~

WinterC

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: GUEST,weary traveller
Date: 16 Jan 03 - 06:01 AM

had no problems in Netherlands Dec 2002 Jan 2003, Amsterdam and coast
In Amsterdam the police drove past, once walked past and said hello

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Sam L
Date: 30 May 03 - 10:40 AM

I never see anyone playing anywhere here in Louisville, KY USA. But was thinking of trying it a bit this summer. I don't know what the law is, but thought I might try asking at local businesses with good locations, maybe with a cd.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From:
Date: 23 Nov 03 - 03:42 PM

I need to know how to get a busking licence in Scotland ?? help plz e-mail me!

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 23 Nov 03 - 06:47 PM

In Brisbane Aust,

City made a big fuss about being some sort of "City of Buskers" crap during 1988 EXPO, but...

City Mall:

Audition - conducted only about 4 times year. Tried playing Low Whistle at about 7:30-8am -ish (my slot) in middle of winter (fingers didn't actually break off!) - tall buildings keep mall in shadow - also no idea (especially from watching successful applicants) - what goddam standards are appplied by peole with unknown qualifications to judge...

If successful, they charge a hefty fee, plus a hefty fee per week/month - and you can buy a permit in advance for months....

No Flames, no Sharp thingies, no amplification, no loud noise, no talent (sorry), - have to compete with permanent Musak, etc.

One blind guy complete with orange sunnies and guide dog has played his Sax for many years - the Council cancelled his permit and kicked him out - there was public outrage on TV and papers - they let him back.

~~~~~
South Bank Parklands - buggered if I know, they ask you to leave a message and then never ring you back.

~~~~~~
Valley Mall.

most of connupitions of City Mall, but they charge less - also less possibility of income due to clientele...

~~~~

Some buskers seem to make a go of it - without permits - in some of the tunnels near the Central Railway Station. Interesting acoustics in the tunnels.

There are other places around, but I have no real details, some markets even pay performers - the Valley Mall Market does on occassions.

Positives: Generally good weather though...

Robin

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: masha
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 02:02 PM

Can we get an update on current Busking Laws?

If you know the requirements for a certain city or spot, add it to the list. (Don't forget to add the country, if it's not obvious).
Example:
   Abcville, Calif. - License required, apply at city hall. $150 annual fee. No amplification.
   Deftown, Somerset, UK - No specific laws.
   ...etc.
   
We'll assume that these basics apply, unless otherwise posted:
- Never block the sidewalk/pavement.
- Never block a shop entrance and try not to obstruct a shop display window.
- If asked to move by the police, Do it. Politely, quickly, pleasantly.

It would also be really nice if people added suggestions for good places to play in different towns, such as "Try the corner of Main Street & Townhall Road", or "avoid the front of Such-and-Such shop, the owner hates buskers".

- masha (who did a lot of busking in Paris & Bath, but a loooooong time ago)

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: oggie
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 02:16 PM

York (UK) requires a licence and if you want to sell CDs a Street Trading Licence (£35 per day). If you cause an obstruction or a shop or office complains you will be moved on. Amplification only allowed in some areas and not near the Minster or St Helen's Square.

Steve

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: Folkiedave
Date: 19 Jan 09 - 02:26 PM

We (Sheffield City Morris)used to dance outside the Minster because it was NOT under the control of the council. Just about everywhere else was and they would not give permission.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: GUEST,Jeff Williams
Date: 26 Feb 09 - 11:06 PM

WinterChild , Busking in Charlotte NC USA is not a problem at all.
You don't even need a license unless you have an amplifier.
The down side is .. you DO NEED and amplifier to be heard over the noise and there are not a lot of places to play .. AND i don't think the people are very generous.
Your looked down on as a bum ..
ALSO: the laws state that you must play on public property and not impede the movement of traffic or pedestrians.

You apply for license with the transportation office.
** which i thought was kind of odd .. **

I've yet to contact them about cost involved in amplified license.
Also there are restrictions based on the total WATTS of power and volume of the music in decibels .
The city is noisy with many construction sites .. i can't imagine what they would consider to be too loud ..
and again ... if your awesome .. nobody will really care as long as you have a permit.

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: GUEST,Free Willy
Date: 26 Feb 09 - 11:52 PM

Unless you are a girl...Busk ANYWHERE in the world...outside of Mexico in 2009

And you will be rolling in the dough, doing just fine.

Busk after the noon and before night's nine.

If you are arrested be thankful for a cot

And a sandwhich, perhaps even a hot

They are not allowed to take the cash you now got.

But you gotta be good or the boys in hood will make it understood...who is de man.

Beware of the gypsy and all of there clan
They have the spans of the world in hand.
Watch the beggin refrain in the closed coaches of trains.
But a quick ditty that is witty will make a sum that is pretty between terminals.

Sincerely,
Billy Boy set Free from Hillary B

Subject: RE: Busking permits
From: GUEST,Billy Boy
Date: 27 Feb 09 - 12:03 AM

If you are female....avoid ALL Muselim countries....and any Muselim sections of other countries (i.e. Israel or Parkistan or Phillipines and especially all of North Africa)the expectation of the police and the local inforcment is that you are a prostitute and the penalities are stringent and administered according to religous law.

You may also want to avoid those sections of public housing associated with Muselims in the Netherland, England and France. These area frequently have local enforcment by the unemployed citizens. Consult a demographic census map and overlay it to the public transportation system.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,How Sponge Bob Got His Name
Date: 27 Feb 09 - 05:07 AM

Times are hard and the competition is Angry, Locals rule the roost

CALIFORNIA
Santa Monica Pier

If you are a performer, there are three ways you can perform on the pier. A street performer's permit is required if you would like to perform for no cost (your revenue would be donation based). If you would like a bigger venue, you can contact Rusty's Surf Ranch. Rusty's is a restaurant that provides as a live music venue. If you would like to perform as a part of the Twilight Dance Series, contact [e-mail].

A street performer's permit can be obtained at City Hall Permits Office, 1685 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401. The contact phone number is 310-458-8745. The fee is $37 for a street performer's permit.

On Venice Beach California

The Spongers will steal all of your profits. Even a good hat-man cannot glean profits when they sponge from three sides at once. The Spongers are good mimes and appear to be part of YOUR act....they are really, really good on Venice Beach CA.   Many of the best performers have carved their niche in the wall of gigs for over a decade...newcomers are not welcome...the Right of Pitch is maintained by strong-arm tactics and the sponges are a good part of it. If you want to move off the strand two blocks east...no problem....but little traffic...or money.


Free But You Gotta Register http://acousticguitartalktalktalk.yuku.com/

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: The Sandman
Date: 27 Feb 09 - 01:40 PM

it used to be legal to busk in Cambridge.,without a permit .

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Debora Lyra
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 12:54 PM

Please!!! Who know, help to upgrade these informations...
Me and my husband are thinking to go busking in Germany, Paris, Sweden or Danimark this summer, but I don't find the rules...

Here in Italy you can busking mostle in pedonal area (anda there are a lot) but you need a license. This license is free end easy to get. You just need to go to the local police called " vigili ", show your documents and fill a form.

Good luck for everybody.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: InOBU
Date: 12 Apr 09 - 07:29 PM

Been busking most of my life, in Ireland, England, Canada, the US, wont ever get a licence, or be answerable to any but those who listen. When busking is successfully stopped by any but those with a licence I'll move on to where it is still free, I'm a free born man and my music is older than the bloody state.
Arrak sa jas

Keep music the property of the people


lorcan

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,sarah in Newcastle
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 07:41 AM

Been busking in Bristol, Bath, Tenby, Newcastle and Durham no license required unless you want to busk in the metro stations in Newcastle, all you have to do is go to Nexus house and fill in a form then you can book your pitch (24 hrs in advance)
Bath and Tenby were the best for me, but anywhere is good really if the weather is ok!

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 08:29 AM

If you are female....avoid ALL Muselim countries....and any Muselim sections of other countries (i.e. Israel or Parkistan or Phillipines and especially all of North Africa)the expectation of the police and the local inforcment is that you are a prostitute and the penalities are stringent and administered according to religous law.

As far as Turkey is concerned: bollocks. There are lots of women buskers in the centre of Istanbul. The municipality runs a training school for blind buskers (usually equipping them with a small portable PA) and a sizable proportion of those are women.

I haven't seen buskers much outside Istanbul. Antalya should be okay. I think I've seen them in Urfa but cities in Kurdistan have more endemic paranoia than most people would want to deal with.

The problem is that only Turkish music gets an audience. I've seen one guy with a guitar doing standard Western stuff in the centre of Istanbul, in a location that should have got an audience for it if anywhere would, and he wasn't doing very well.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Tone Deaf Leopard
Date: 13 Apr 09 - 05:53 PM

We were moved on at Broadstairs Festival (UK) a few years ago, despite having an official collecting tin. Apparently you can stand and busk, or use your own chair, but you can't use the promenade or park seats, as they are Council property. We got busking passes made by the Festival Staff, and had no more trouble.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,laura
Date: 27 May 09 - 01:48 PM

Hiya! Do you have to be a resident of Italy to get a license to busk in Venice?
Thank you
Laura

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 20 Jun 09 - 07:45 PM

Hey,

I've been busking in Newcastle for just under two years now, to my knowledge you don't need a license however, just tonight I was told by some policemen that you did though they didnt seem to know a lot about it? I'm a little confused, if anyone knows what the deal is let me know!?!?

Jordan

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 20 Jun 09 - 07:52 PM

Ask them next time if they know what such a licence looks like.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,alex
Date: 13 Jul 09 - 04:38 PM

what about toronto canada? i heard theres a legal spot on queen some where and id like to find out more specifics

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: goatfell
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 04:56 AM

do you need a permit to busk in SCOTLAND?

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,PeterC
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 04:34 PM

According to a post on Yahoo Answers the answer is that it is covered by local bylaws not by a national law.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 05:06 PM

I have never heard of a busker's permit in Scotland and I very much doubt if any policeman would know what one looked like.

There are some specific places in Scotland that are covered by local legislation which is probably of dubious validity if anyone wanted to spend the money challenging it. Edinburgh High Street during the Festival is the big one - they organize the place into specific "stages" during the day, with performance slots allocated. I think you have to be a paid-up Fringe act to get a slot. But 20 yards away from that area and you can do what you like.

I suspect you'd get bounced instantly if you tried busking in front of one the main stages at T in the Park, too.

Some people have been moved on under general nuisance legislation. People live in the upper High Street and the ever-increasing number of bagpipe buskers was getting beyond a joke. (This isn't some ancient time-honoured tradition, it's a way of extracting money from tourists that developed in the 1990s).

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: meself
Date: 14 Jul 09 - 05:53 PM

As for Toronto - since no one who's closer to the action seems to be responding - as far as I know, which is from about here to the door, you don't need any kind of a permit, unless you are going to busk in the subway. Having said that, it's been many years since I busked there, so things may have changed, but if so, I haven't heard about it.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Yam Digger
Date: 02 Aug 09 - 10:51 PM

Actually, you do need a permit to busk on Toronto streets. It costs $35. You don't have to audition though, you just pay and play. To play in Torontos subways is a different story. You need to audition for that.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,William
Date: 04 Sep 09 - 05:04 AM

I'm a live statue and i tried to busk today at South Bank in Brisbane. They told me to go to Roma St to get a license, yet when i went there they told me it was the wrong place as they only dealt with Queen St and Fortitude Valley. Any help?

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,S-j in Newcastle
Date: 08 Sep 09 - 06:34 AM

Hi, I'm going to be in London for work for 5 weeks but am really broke and need to go busking until am paid!
Does anyone know of any good busking places in London ( I understand Covent Garden one only Auditions once in a while) so maybe somewhere where you dont have to audition as I am down next week and need to get out righgt away to enable self to get to job!!

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,GUEST, Jordan Little
Date: 12 Sep 09 - 09:59 AM

Any chance anyone could email me the busking laws regarding Germany, France, Belgium, Holland and Italy to [e-mail]?

Thanks! :)

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 12 Sep 09 - 10:24 AM

If anybody knew that, they wouldn't be sending it by private email, they'd be posting the links here.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Nov 09 - 06:56 AM

hi i'd just like to know how much a busking licence is because i have been lookin on various websites and have found nothing. Many thanks!

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,PeterC
Date: 05 Nov 09 - 04:02 PM

Where?
This is an international forum and in many jurisdictions busking regulations are set at a municipal level.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,biff
Date: 06 Nov 09 - 03:28 PM

go to your local boro/police station

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: meself
Date: 06 Nov 09 - 03:33 PM

Or phone the municipal offices. Or find their website and search out "busking" or "buskers".

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,oleandr
Date: 27 May 10 - 04:41 AM

Hey there! I was recently busking in Stockholm, Sweden. Playing acoustic mondolin in Gamla Stan, central part of the city, when all of a sudden, was taken by the police, brought to the police station and after keeping me there for two days, sent back to my home country, though my documents were ok and my being in the country was legal. Police said that busking is illegal in Sweden, and by the law, its the same as begging. Did anybody have that kind of experience in Sweden or somewhere else in Europe_

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Bardan
Date: 27 May 10 - 06:39 PM

In italy it's normally by 'commune'. I think Piemonte has an over all law that allows it throughout. If you're polite, the worst that happens is they move you on. Don't bother with Rome. Tuscany and Emilia Romagna are good in my experience but the legality varies from town to town. Ferrara was particularly relaxed about it. The police in Parma appreciate the music and tell you with exquisite politeness to move on while moaning about the stupidity of the rule.

Spain is generally fine in my experience. I think you technically have to get a permit, but no-one bothers and even the council employees and police don't seem sure in most towns. The only exceptions were Santiago de compostella and the area around Malaga/Marbella where they tell you to bugger off and apparently confiscate your instrument if they catch you again.

German towns generally allow it but tend to have rules on when and where you can play. By and large, if you move every hour or so and don't play between noon and four in the afternoon you're fine.

I never had any trouble in Denmark or Sweden. I got the impression busking wasn't allowed, but decent quality music seemed to impress people a lot and the police were fairly relaxed. Mind you I might have just been lucky and I left Stockholm quickly cos the hats were utter shit. Malmo and Lund are good. Helsingor and helsingborg are good as well.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Old Grizzly
Date: 27 May 10 - 07:23 PM

Why not try googling ?

eg search Eastbourne +busking

this gives immediate info on the council website.

Tried this for a few places and plenty have some info available

Dave

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,a person raising money for a honduras missio
Date: 26 Jun 10 - 06:36 PM

does anyone know if it is illegal to busk in mooresville NC or in birkdale village located in huntersville NC. and or if you can get a permit to play in those areas. -and charlotte?

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,mattesinfo
Date: 17 Jul 10 - 02:02 PM

Hi guys! what about Barcelona? do I have to get a license? did anybody busk recently in Ramblas or other strategic places?...I busked in Dublin, it's been wonderful and I hope it will be so in Barcelona too!

thank you!

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,jack
Date: 11 Oct 10 - 06:21 AM

I want to know the rules on busking in ireland. derry to be precise, u know permits age length of time, that sort of thing and what happens if you dont obey the rules

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,mike the minstrel
Date: 16 Oct 10 - 07:15 AM

I have fully researched a guide to busking law in the uk as part of my degree in popular music.
It has been endorsed officially by wakefield police, as a national guide.
I have had numerous apologies since challenging different organisations and they all promise never to do it again.

I find that you often have to explain the law to the police and council officials and then they never bother you again.
You can read the guide here

Busking and UK Law

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Jun 11 - 04:19 PM

[e-mail].I think the Gamla Stan has times of the day you can play,but if you were legal in the country the police had no right to arrest or deport you,as it was legalised in the 70 s,by famous busker Don Partridge after he was also arrested in Stockholm.It was known as Dons law.2010 was the year that Swedens facist party came to power in a coalision goverment.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Peter C
Date: 06 Jun 11 - 06:34 AM

There is a brief guide to the UK position on the Glosfolk web site here

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Solracu
Date: 12 Aug 11 - 02:51 AM

Hi I'm looking to see wht the rules are about busking along Venice Beach in Venice, CA. so far I ahven't found any info to tell me how to be able to perform there. Can anyone give me a hand?
thanks Carlos

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 12 Aug 11 - 03:16 AM

Hi, Carlos-
Venice Beach has been a very popular place for buskers for a long, long time - but I think you have to get a permit from the City of Los Angeles (Venice is part of the City of LA). This page says a lottery started in 2005 for monthly permits for 40 spots for performers and 60 spots for vendors. Might be an idea to get started sometime other than during the summer, when permits might be likely to be scarce.
There are lots of small towns along the beach in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Most likely, each independent city issues its own permits - don't restrict yourself just to Venice. Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, and Hermosa Beach are likely places. I know the beaches in Los Angeles County quite well In Orange County, I'd try Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, Balboa and Newport Beach, and maybe Seal Beach. In San Diego County, La Jolla and Mission Beach are good bets - I don't know about the north part of the county. I can't say whether all of these places permit buskers, but I've been to all of them and found them to be places that would be conducive to busking, if it's allowed.
Would you believe that I went to most of these places on official business as a federal government investigator....can't say I minded that part of my job at all.

Good luck!

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Stephen
Date: 23 Nov 11 - 03:47 PM

In Boulder, Colorado, USA you don't need a permit. I've been busking on the Pearl Street Mall for the last couple of years. People there don't really care about ability either. I played in Cremona Italy for about an hour. Didn't make much (there's a different standard on violinists there...), but had no issues with the police there.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 03 Jan 12 - 05:00 PM

Try busking on PRIVATE property (with permission)next to the crowds. I've never been told to stop playing my violin when on private property.

Once you are a fixture on private property- and the police like your routine, -try moving to a public area nearby. Chances are you'll be left alone also. The worst that can happen is a policeman will politely let you know what the rules are in that city.

Don't go to city hall first. Play on private property. The police will never arrest you on private property. They'll just figure that you don't know the rules in the city. If it's near a movie theatre, don't ever ask for permission. It's better to ask for forgiveness, than ask for permission. The worst that can happen (especially if an owner likes your performance)is you'll be asked to leave.

[e-mail]

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,GUEST - Montreal
Date: 13 Jan 12 - 12:08 PM

Montreal - permit needed for street busking. No amplifiers or percussion ("Spoonman" being an exception - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B6BRfQoxLw ). Place Jacques-Cartier is a restricted area. Metro - (optional - but encouraged) permit and audition needed from a "union" of Metro performers. You can only perform in authorized areas in Metro stations. At the opening time of the Metro (5:30 am), potential performers fill out schedules at the most desireable locations (the schedule is always tucked behind the "authorized area" sign, so it can be modified). Less desireable locations often have time slots available throughout the day. Members of the "union" have priority, but non-members might be able to find a spot.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,guest Jazzer V
Date: 19 Jan 12 - 02:22 PM

We want to busk in Barcelona in April. Anyone know the exact address to apply for the permit? All I know is that in 2011 permits were free and that the council give you a timetable.I'd be very grateful for any advice...

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Bagpipes
Date: 07 Mar 12 - 07:38 PM

I'm also looking for advice on busking in northern Spain this summer, particularly Zaragoza and San Sebastian. Any tips on permits/how worthwhile it is to bust these areas?

Our tips for Milan, Italy - my boyfriend made a fortune playing bagpipes in central Milan, near the cathedral and main square. You have to go to the police station close to Duomo/San Babila metro, give your details, pay a very small amount and book your slots for the week. They give you a paper permit which you can show to police (they do tend to check permits quite regularly but you'll normally get away without having one if it's the first time they've seen you, play the dumb tourist)

Subject: RE: busking rules
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 06:54 PM

What age must I be to be a busker in Illinois.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 04:38 AM

Can anyone tell me please what is the current situation with street perfomances in Amsterdam? I've heard that a license is recuired if I want to play more than 30 minutes and my band includes percussion. They say also that this license is given to EU-citizens only, is that true?

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 14 May 12 - 01:40 PM

SOMEONE KNOWS ABOUT THE REGULATIONS FOR BUSKERS IN PRAGUE ! THANK YOU

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 14 May 12 - 01:50 PM

I'm in the US. Never had a permit, have never been asked for one, wouldn't pay a red cent for one if they were required.

I am sure there are places where such things are required, but, as someone mentioned some time ago, it's ALWAYS easier to ask forgiveness than permission.

I try not to block a doorway or any part of the sidewalk that would force people to have to go around me, and over 20 years I've never had an issue, and that after having performed in several states.

Good luck,

Big

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,b
Date: 18 Jun 12 - 10:20 AM

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 29 Jun 12 - 04:26 PM

Last time I was in Amsterdam they'd stopped the buskers in the main drag becasue of pickpockets

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Lee Rice
Date: 10 Nov 12 - 03:44 AM

I am so pleased I found this site. I'm new to busking and I've only busked Milan and Sondrio. I'm trying Malaga next week.
Its great to get some tips, I won't be looking for any permits and I've already been moved on a few times but then just setup 100 meters away with zero problems.
Be free to enjoy music everywhere I say :)

Peace out

Lee

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: ollaimh
Date: 10 Nov 12 - 11:58 AM

i busked for decades in north americas, my european busking is so old it doesn't count--1975ish.

i had a toronto subway licance for over a decade, it was sometimes very good, with a few poor years. the regulations have gotten more restrictive over the years. bureaucrats with noting to do will make busy work, and the toronto transit commission has lots of senior bureaucrats with nothing to do, there was even a local scadal that the council member who was ttc chair was having sex in his office during office hours. an orwellian world(the councillor reswigned and quit politicsa).

however as marion said unlicanced buskers can do well in the subway . they have to be polite. many show up and view the licenced buskers as "the man" and swear and intimidate. that will get you to the police real quick. i used to hlpe the nice ones. there are lots of stations were the buskers are no longer allowed to play that are very good money and nice crowds. if you play them in rotation the odds of running into the same police officers is low and if they only see you occasionally they may kick you out but they won't charge you.

there are also many neighbourhoods in toronto where busking right on the street is decent, although not as good as the best subay spots. i used to carry a mandolin everywhere just in case in toronto.

now be aware if you are an immigrant the local born have a powerfull sense of entitlement and will do pretty much any dirty trick to try and get you to leave except violence--toronto anglos are usually cowardly. you hear a lot of self righteous bull shit from them but about how they are owed.among the licenced buskers they even formed a buskers union which kicked me out for talking about the threats and dirty tricks. can't talk back to the anglos in toronto.i can't over state the toronto anglo bigotry--just ignore them and do your thing, they have no self awareness at all and you can't reason with them.(but most don't last long and the ones that do are easily out manouvered) however the good news are these types although prevelant are dumb and incompetent. if you get to know the spots and befriend the nice players you will be able to do well with or without a licence. if you have a good act you will be ble to live totally on busking--i did it many years.with or without a licence.

toronto is also a bif city and you see wired stuff but its one of the most polite and law abiding city in the world, so it is very safe for buskers, not true in some american cities.

i used to play vancouver sanfranscisco and seattle a lot as well , and cities in between. most american cities with a local university have a corner with a coffee shop book store and record store near the university. i have always done well on that corner right out on the street. san franscisco can be fantastic, but you have to line up for the great spots in the market. seattle is good at pike street market and i met some great and nfun musicians there. including a guy who used to display a sign saying:"saving for a hooker". ya gotta love a sarcastic busker--the cloying thing does get old.


vancouver had a licanec system as well and they have had changes due to socan fees. you'd have to ask about that. the liquor stores used to be great though, and some neighbourhoods are good out on the street.however they have an increacing homelessness and poverty problem, which can be trouble. the down and outs are not together enough to reason with .

i have retired and moved to rural new brunswick. it's boring but i can use some boredom. after years of husstling for a buck i like my boredom

i used to dream about getting a van and touring europe, but sigh not now. now i am learning ancient wire strung gaelic harp and lute. and doing a lot of meditation

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: meself
Date: 10 Nov 12 - 01:13 PM

I like my boredom and my bitterness.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,how about Turky??
Date: 14 Nov 12 - 07:40 AM

I want to perform as a liveing statue in Turky, anybody knows something about that is there need for licance ??? Thanks

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Nov 12 - 08:00 AM

I'm going to try busking too. I sing and play ukulele and guitar. In addition I write poetry and tell stories but I don't think that spoken word will work too well in town centres. I have just picked up my application form for Stockton-on-Tees - I need to get two passport photos and then hand in the form. I'm keen to get practical advice.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Rob1964b
Date: 05 Jan 13 - 10:09 AM

Its easier to ask for forgiveness than to ask for permission. You can waste a lot of time trying to get permits and stuff. If people are enjoying your performance then no-one will complain.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: paul vaughan
Date: 26 Nov 13 - 02:06 PM

I thought I'd tag this onto this thread. My mate Danny was busking in Seaford today when he was asked to move on by the Police following a "complaint". Luckily he had his camcorder handy, watch this for a wonderful example of how to handle the Police in these situations!

Danny politely declines a polite request

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Knoxvillian
Date: 16 Oct 14 - 06:38 PM

In Knoxville TN it is legal and appreciated. Market square is the place. Years ago someone was arrested for busking in Knoxville, and the mayor came out and made a statement saying that Country Music is a part of the heritage of Tennessee and Knoxville, TN and so he made busking legal FOREVER. Go KNOXVILLE.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Desi C
Date: 17 Oct 14 - 03:10 AM

I can only tell ,you about England and southern Ireland. In England the law is rather vague, basically it's a goood idea to phone the police just to ask in each area, usually it's no problem, though the tend to warn that if you cause a large crowd you miht be asked to move on. In Birmingham city centre over the X'mas period, you may now be asked to audition and be assigned to a certain spot!

In Southern Ireland, it's a buskers paradise. Not only is it legal but warmly encouraged. There, if you cause a large crowd, ot only will you NOT be moved on, but the crowd may be moved. It used to be a sort of unwritten law that if a musician walked into a pub, he be given food and a free drink and a bed for the night. I have actually walked into 2 bars in Kilkenny and been given a free drink in the lsst couple of years. And I know of one backpackers hostel in central Dublin where, if you perform for an hour you get free accomodation. You can earn quite good money too there, such generous people

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: a gud ole bwoy
Date: 25 Oct 14 - 12:01 PM

Way back someone asked about busking in Cambridge UK. Yep it's still a license free city but there are a lot of other buskers so you have to be very good or very different to make any money. There is now a group called Cambuskers, they have a facebook page, who organise buskers for some of the Cambridge festivals but not all. On festival days it'll be the other buskers and busking organisers who'll be asking you to move from Cambridge Council agreed festival busking sites, the police don't get involved. But if you are asked to shift it will be done in the polite, well mannered way that is Cambridge.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Molly
Date: 24 Sep 15 - 10:50 AM

Does anybody know the rules for busking in Portugal? In the Algarve at the moment and need to know the rules for busking with an amp, we don't want it being confiscated or having to pay a fine!

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST,Josi
Date: 20 Jun 16 - 12:50 PM

Busking in Scotland is allowed without any licence as long as you don't sell anything - only 'donations' are permitted

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 20 Jun 16 - 06:07 PM

I want to perform as a liveing statue in Turky, anybody knows something about that is there need for licance ???

I doubt there's any need for a licence, there are too many buskers of different kinds doing it.

But. Be a bit sensitive. A lot of buskers are trying to live from it, and the pickings aren't great. Read Geert Mak's excellent book "The Bridge" for an insight into their lives. And the Istanbul municipality (maybe others?) organizes bands of blind musicians, who tend to get good permanent spots and who certainly have no possibility of other income. Interfere with them and you would get no sympathy from me if you got into trouble.


Busking in Scotland is allowed without any licence as long as you don't sell anything - only 'donations' are permitted

The Royal Mile in Edinburgh, between the Tron and St Giles, is an exception during the Festival. There is probably no legal basis for the way the council allocates time and space for performers there, but it would be a waste of time arguing. If you don't have an official booking you will get the boot.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: GUEST
Date: 26 May 21 - 04:15 AM

To be safe in most cities that frown on buskers, I start by playing THE GODFATHER on my violin. Then switch to Vivaldi's SPRING first movement I play those in a vacant store entrance off the sidewalk.By the time I finish the concertmaster's first solo in the Vivaldi, I have gathered quite a crowd (in the case of NYC-about 150 listeners on B'way) Probably the biggest crowd I've ever had was there. It was there on B'way, that the most attention I've ever gathered was when I moved out to the sidewalk next to the street and an ambulance pulled up next to me and the driver positioned his hand held microphone out his window next to my violin and I could see pedestrians blocks away looking around trying to figure out where the violinist was !

After years of busking , you get to know where to begin playing. Of course you take in the foot traffic and the acoustics. I don't use any amplification. People aren't going to come hear you unless they are close by and it's convenient and they are drawn by the presence of onlookers (onlisteners).I don't dress up with a tux or tails. A cooler time of day in the spring, like late afternoon, summer or fall-I play better in a nice sweater and that keeps listeners around longer.

These days, my best tips and most interest I gather from cars, waiting for a green light. I stand nest to the right hand turn lane and sit on a stool a foot from the street. Passengers or drivers roll down their window as far as 15 cars back and maybe listening for up to a minute for the light to change, I always have a captive audience, even without amplification. A right turn lane at the exit from a Walmart or the like,during heavy shopping hours is the best.

As far as cities and locations which are going to give you a hard time. I begin playing on the public sidewalk near a drug store, party store or any store with a fair amount of traffic. The store should have an enclosed walk-in entrance (foyer) area which is owned by the store. I'll play on the sidewalk for a short time until a get a small crowd and play loud enough so the store owner or manager can hear me and see the crowd I have gathered. I will then go in and ask if I could play in his foyer area. A "yes" is the invitation that should keep the city off my back. As long as there is enough room to perform and allow customers to easily enter the store. Outside of movie theaters works well for me also. Best not to overdo the amplification, if any.

Hope this is helpful to you.
.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: The Sandman
Date: 26 May 21 - 04:56 AM

guest are you in a country that drives on the right hand side

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 26 May 21 - 12:14 PM

So adjust the advice for those that drive on the left, Dick. Big deal.

Subject: RE: Busking permits (in various locations)
From: Jack Campin
Date: 26 May 21 - 05:24 PM

GUEST has a good idea there. I wonder what request numbers you have to have handy in places where the crime syndicate that owns the local police force isn't Italian? What do the Hong Kong Triads or Russian gang bosses like?