The new guidelines aim to define clearer rules for busking. These include the location, timing, duration, and volume of busking performances. We are not looking at licensing busking as an activity.
The busking code
- There should be at least 50m between buskers’ pitches.
- Buskers shall perform on one pitch for a maximum of two hours.
- A busker is there to entertain not disrupt the lives of people living or working nearby. Please be considerate to shops, market stalls, businesses, places of worship, shoppers and residents in the area.
- Consideration should be given for those dining outside when choosing an appropriate pitch.
- Avoid areas where construction works are being carried out.
- If you have a limited repertoire of material, be prepared to move locations instead of repeating your performance in the same place.
Sound
- Please be prepared to turn the volume down if requested.
- The volume of busker’s performances should be just above the background street noise without being intrusive. Volume levels must be relative and considerate. A simple test would be the volume is too loud if a standard conversation cannot be held in a nearby shop.
- If amplifiers must be used, they should not be mains or generator powered. If you are using an amp above 10watts, you must ensure the volume is set to a low level.
- Excessive amplifier volume can distort sound; turning down the volume can improve your performance.
Timings
- Performances will take place between 10am and 10pm.
- No amplifiers can be used after 9pm.
Obstructions
- Buskers shall not obstruct pedestrian flow in the street.
- Pitches must not be near cash points or block building entrances.
- Fire exits shall not be blocked in any circumstances.
Complaints
- If complaints are received, these will be investigated.
- Should a performance be deemed to be a nuisance or anti-social, performers will be asked to either reduce the volume of their performance or stop completely.
- Buskers shall immediately stop their activities when requested to do so by an officer representing Norwich City Council or a police officer.
Legislation
If the guidance provided by Norwich City Council is followed, then no enforcement action will be necessary. However, should directions given by either the police or council officers be ignored then action can be taken under the following legislation:
- Environmental Protection Act 1990
- Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
- Under Section 62 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974, no amplification is allowed in any public place between 9pm and 8am.
- Inclusive Mobility. A Guide to Best Practice on Access to Pedestrian and Transport Infrastructure December 2021.
Organised events
- Busking will not be permitted in areas that are booked for Norwich City Council and/or third-party events, either through a licensed event or one necessitating a closure of a road, unless expressly agreed with the council in advance of an event.
- When roadworks are taking place, buskers should place themselves at least 50m away from a works site.
Safety
Everyone who performs on Norwich’s streets has a responsibility to do so safely and should undertake a risk assessment and consider whether they should have public liability cover.
Suggested locations
Here are some suggested locations for busking, though please note the guidelines will apply wherever busking is being performed:
- Gentleman’s Walk
- Corner of Haymarket and Hay HiIl (opposite Primark)
- Junction of Castle Street and Davey Place
- St George’s Street (opposite the Playhouse)
- London Street
- Part of Castle Street (between Davey Place and London Street)
- Tombland (land between Zizzi’s, Bond and Haart)
- St Gregorys Green (area outside St Gregorys Church)
- All Saints Green (Land between Strangers Coffee, John Lewis and All Saints Centre)
