Busking in Vancouver streets

Steps to getting a street entertainment permit

 To busk on most Vancouver sidewalks, you need a street entertainment permit.

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  Step 1: Review locations where you don't need a permit

  Busking locations where you don't need a permit:

  • Library Square, specifically the sidewalks along:
    • 300-block West Georgia Street
    • 700-block Homer Street
  • Queen Elizabeth Theatre, specifically the sidewalks along:
    • 200-block West Georgia Street
    • 600-block Hamilton Street
  • Science World, specifically the sidewalks along:
    • West side of Quebec Street
  • Seawall from Science World to Cambie Bridge, specifically:
    • East and north sides of False Creek
  • SkyTrain stations, specifically the sidewalks adjacent to the stations (unless refused by TransLink)
  • Terry Fox Plaza, specifically the sidewalks along:
    • 700- and 800-blocks Beatty Street
  • Vancouver Art Gallery, specifically the sidewalks along:
    • 800-block Robson Street
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  Step 2: Review locations where busking is prohibited

  You are not allowed to busk:

  • Within 10 metres of the Gastown Steam Clock (corner of Water Street and Cambie Street)
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  Step 3: Determine if you meet the requirements

  To apply for a busking permit, you need to:

  • Be at least 13 years old (If you are 13 to 15 years old, your permit will be issued in your parent's name.)
  • Have valid photo ID

   Performers aged 13- to 15-years must be accompanied by a parent at all times during performances.

   Children 12 and under are not eligible for busking permits.

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  Step 4: Review guidelines and conditions for street entertainers

  We understand the adrenaline generated when performing for an audience. However, take care not to irritate neighbouring businesses or residents.

  Anywhere you busk in Vancouver – permit-only area or not – you need to follow these conditions and guidelines.

  Read the guidelines PDF file (195 KB)

  Performance durations and times

  • Up to two performances are allowed on a street block face, except on Robson Street west of Burrard St, where up to four performances are allowed on each block face
  • The maximum performance time is 60 minutes at any one location. After 60 minutes, you must move to a different location at least one full block away. Portrait artists can be at one location for up to two hours
  • On city streets, performances may take place between 10am and 10pm, seven days a week

  Safety and comfort

  • Performers and their audience must not block doorways, display windows, sidewalks, paths, bicycle routes, or park or city streets and roads
  • Performances must not jeopardize the comfort and safety of others. Performers must respect the wishes of nearby residents and visitors, particularly regarding the loudness of the performance. Refrain from requesting the crowd to cheer or yell
  • The use of sharp or dangerous objects is prohibited, including juggling knives, hatches, chainsaws, or flaming objects

  Volume levels and amplification

  • Voice amplification is not allowed, although we give case-by-case consideration to rap music performers
  • Battery-operated amplification can only be used for instruments that need an amp to be heard (when you apply for your permit, we ask you to describe your instrument or accessory to be amplified)
    • For example, an acoustic guitar does not need amplification to be heard
  • Amplification is only allowed for the instrument identified on the permit
  • Performances using amplification must be in a location that will not disturb others. Performers must respect the wishes and concerns of others
  • The volume must be kept to a reasonable level, under 70 db and intended for an audience within 10 metres, within the guidelines set by the Noise Control By-law

  Equipment

  • Portrait artists may use one easel and two small folding chairs, and display up to three pieces of their art including the working drawing. The sale of pre-drawn work or photocopies is not permitted

  Groups

  • Busking in groups of up to three performers is allowed. In permit areas, each performer needs a valid permit while performing
  • Groups must limit their footprint to ensure enough space for pedestrian traffic

  Sales

  • Musicians are permitted to sell recordings of their original work during their performance. No other sales are permitted

  Cooperation with officials

  • Performers must cooperate immediately with requests by any member of the Police Department or City of Vancouver officials
  • In permit areas, the permit must be on display during the performance

  How we handle complaints

  If you don't follow these conditions and guidelines, you may:

  • Be told to lower your volume or find a new location
  • Get a warning or fine
  • Have your equipment confiscated
  • Have your permit suspended or cancelled
  • Lose the privilege to perform on city streets for six months
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  Step 5: Apply for a permit and pay fees

  A. Review fees

  2020 Fees

  Permit length	Fee
  4 months	$42.34 + $2.12 GST
  1 year	$125.65 + $6.28 GST

  B. Apply

  Apply in person at Engineering Services with your:

  • Completed application form PDF file (195 KB)
  • Permit fee (in cash, debit, or credit)
  • Valid photo ID