Licence

Busking licence (England and Wales)

You may need a busking licence or permit from the council before busking in that area. Find out the council's rules on busking and apply online.

Apply for this licence

For example SW1A 2AA

Find a postcode on Royal Mail's postcode finder

You may need a licence from your council to busk in England and Wales.

Restrictions

Busking is not illegal but your council will tell you about byelaws or rules you must observe, such as:

  • not making too much noise
  • not blocking public highways (footpaths, pavements, open pedestrian areas)
  • not displaying notices asking for payment
  • not carrying out street trading (you need a street trading licence for this)
  • only busking in certain parts of the town or for a limited period of time

Children under 14 aren’t allowed to busk.

How to apply

Contact your council to see if you need a busking licence. You may have to pay a fee when you apply.

You might be able to apply through your council’s website.

Displaying your licence

If you do need a licence, you must display it at all times when performing.