Tips For Responsible Busking
A comprehensive guide to help you perform on the streets with confidence, respect, and professionalism.
No Licence
Most of UK
2 Hours
Recommended Max
50m+
From Other Buskers
9pm Cutoff
Amplification
What is busking?
Busking is performing music, dance, street theatre or art in a public space for the purpose of receiving voluntary contributions from members of the public.
With the exception of Camden and Hillingdon, no licence is required to busk on public land anywhere in the UK unless you are raising money for a charity.
Before you perform
Join the community. You're joining street traders, shops, businesses, residents, and other buskers. Anticipate the impact your act will have.
Introduce yourself. Let nearby businesses know about your performance in advance - this makes complaints less likely.
Be willing to compromise. Sharing public space and engaging in constructive dialogue goes a long way to resolving issues.
Stay courteous. Being calm and polite will promote positive relationships on the street.
Selecting your pitch
Avoid blocking highways or shop entrances. Allow plenty of space for pedestrians.
Stay at least 50-100m from other buskers. Speak to them first if closer.
Move after two hours. Share the space - it builds community spirit.
Don't reserve more than one pitch. First come, first served.
How loud should I be?
Just above ambient noise. You should be heard by your immediate audience without causing interference to surrounding businesses.
Repetition matters. Repetitive performances can seem louder than they are. Vary your setlist and take breaks.
Know your environment. Every pitch has different acoustics. Smaller, quieter spaces need lower volumes.
Instruments and amplifiers suited to the stage are not necessarily suited to busking. Large PA systems and generators are more likely to cause problems.
The Legal Background
Noise abatement notices can be served for statutory nuisances. Breaching can lead to fines and equipment seizure.
No amplification allowed in any public street after 9pm and before 8am.
Councils can issue Community Protection Notices for genuine anti-social behaviour.
Children under 14 are not normally allowed to busk (under 16 in some areas).
This guide has been produced by Keep Streets Live with support from the Musicians' Union and Equity.