Buskers' code
Wyre Forest District Council welcomes live music and performance which enhances the experience of visitors to the district.
What is busking?
‘Busking’ means music, dance, street theatre, performance and art offered live in public spaces for the purposes of entertaining, interacting with members of the public, and receiving voluntary contributions.
Do I need a licence to busk?
You do not need to apply for or pay for a permit to perform in most cases.
You will need either a 'Street Collection Permit' or 'Street Trading licence' if:-
There is an expectation that everyone will act reasonably in sharing space with everyone - shoppers, business and other buskers.
Children under 14 are not permitted to busk. Those aged 14–17 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Permission to perform
You do not need prior permission to busk.
You can set up and perform without contacting the council first, provided you follow our code of conduct. If you are new to the district or unsure about a particular location, you are welcome to contact us in advance for guidance — verbal advice can usually be given immediately.
Code of conduct
All performers in Wyre Forest district are asked to follow this code. While compliance is voluntary, failure to follow the code — especially after being asked to do so by a council officer or police officer — may result in formal action under existing byelaws, noise legislation, or highway obstruction powers.
PLEASE DO
- Keep your performance to no more than 1 hour in any one spot
- Move at least 50 metres away after each session and wait at least 2 hours before returning
- Stay at least 50 metres from another busker at all times
- Ensure your sound cannot clearly be heard more than 30 metres away
- Turn down your volume immediately if asked by a council officer, police officer, or nearby business
- Keep your collecting hat, case, or box within 75cm of your feet
- Perform to a reasonable standard of skill and competence
- Behave considerately toward members of the public, traders, and other performers
- Take regular breaks to allow any gathered crowds to disperse
PLEASE DO NOT
- Use mains-powered or generator-powered amplification
- Obstruct the pavement, road, or access to shops — or allow an audience to do so
- Perform in a manner that is dangerous, offensive, or likely to cause alarm or distress
- Perform while under the influence of alcohol or other substances
- Use signage on your collecting vessel other than the words "thank you"
- Sell CDs, merchandise, or other items without a Street Trading Licence
- Collect donations for charity without a Street Collection Permit
- Use live animals as part of your act
- Leave equipment unattended in a way that creates an obstruction or hazard
- Unnecessarily amplify performances - A standard conversation should still be possible inside a nearby shop while you are performing. If that is not the case, your volume is likely too loud.
Contact us
Good performers may be invited to appear at council-organised events, for which payment may be made. Get in touch with our operational services team to register your interest.
Resolving issues
Most issues between buskers and nearby businesses or members of the public can be resolved amicably. If someone approaches you with a concern, remain respectful and try to reach a compromise — adjusting your volume or moving to a different spot is often all that is needed.
If you believe you have fully complied with this code but cannot reach a resolution with the person complaining, you may politely direct them to contact the council.