Busking guidance

Tamworth Busking Voluntary Guidance

What is Busking?

Busking means performing music, dance, street theatre, or art in public spaces to entertain or engage with the public. These performances are usually informal, spontaneous, and unplanned.

Our Approach

Tamworth welcomes buskers and values the vibrancy they bring to the town centre. We want to create a positive atmosphere for residents, visitors, and performers alike.

This guidance encourages:

  • Respect for others
  • Consideration for the local environment
  • Resolving issues through communication

Most complaints about busking relate to noise, repetition, or obstruction. These can usually be resolved without formal action. This voluntary code of practice has been designed to prevent complaints and subsequent intervention. However, if problems persist and this guidance is ignored, the council may use legal powers as a last resort.

Do I Need Permission to Busk?

No permission is needed by the council to busk in Tamworth. However, we politely request that all performers must follow our voluntary Busking Code of Practice.

Important Notes

  • Middle Entry is a public walkway with a roof, which can amplify sound. You may be asked to move more often from this area due to noise complaints.
  • The town centre and Castle Grounds are licensed for planned entertainment events. These events are booked in advance and follow specific rules to protect the public and prevent disruption. It would be advisable for you to check with the Arts and Events Department of the council to ensure there is no event planned when you wish to busk.
  • On Market Days (Tuesdays and Saturdays): please contact Market Management at lsdpromotions.co.uk to make arrangements.

Fees

There are no fees for busking in Tamworth.

Legal Information

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, loud music in the street can be classed as a statutory nuisance. Anti-Social Behaviour, including noise, may also be subject to enforcement under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. This may include the serving of a Community Protection Warning, and subsequent Notice, if required. 

The council can take legal action, including setting restrictions, or seizing instruments and/or equipment, if necessary. If you follow the Code of Practice, enforcement action is unlikely. However, anyone, not just the council or police, can take legal action if they believe a nuisance is being caused.

Busking Code of Practice

This is voluntary guidance designed to balance the needs of performers, businesses and the public. This helps ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone and reduces the likelihood of council intervention and/or enforcement. Please follow these rules when busking in Tamworth:

Noise  

  • Music or voice must not be clearly heard from more than 50 metres away.
  • No mains-powered or generator-powered amplification is allowed.
  • Performances are limited to 45 minutes per spot, followed by a significant break.
  • Avoid repeating the same material.

Licensing

Respect for Others

  • Do not cause a nuisance to nearby businesses or residents.
  • Do not block public phones or access routes.
  • Busking is recommended between 10am and 4pm only (unless part of an approved event).
  • All performers must respect the Council’s Equality and Diversity Policy.
  • Offensive or distressing acts will be stopped immediately.
  • You may not perform if under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Location

  • Do not block pavements or public areas.
  • You are responsible for managing any crowds that gather.
  • Do not use public benches, lampposts, or railings as part of your act.
  • Stay at least 50 metres away from other buskers.
  • See the list of preferred busking areas below.

Performance Quality

  • Acts should aim to entertain, not to beg.

Safety

  • Performances must not be dangerous.
  • Jugglers and circus acts should have public liability insurance.

Animals

  • Animals are not allowed in performances.

Group Size

  • A maximum of 6 performers per group is strongly recommended without prior approval.

Compliance

  • You must stop performing if asked by a police or council officer.

Preferred Busking Areas

  • Near the Town Hall
  • Outside Home Bargains
  • St Editha’s Square (unless a pre-planned event is taking place)

Even outside these areas, this guidance still applies.

Any questions? Please contact us on: TARoutdoorevents@tamworth.gov.uk