Busking in Vancouver streets and parks

Other busking programs

Buskers and street performers sing, dance, juggle, mime, do magic, and draw caricatures to entertain crowds and receive donations on streets and in parks.

We encourage a wide variety of street entertainment and provide permits according to performance type and content on a case by case basis.

Steps to getting a street entertainment permit

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

Step 1: Review locations where you don't need a permit
Busking locations where you don't need a permit:
- Parks, unless specifically prohibited
- 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
Step 2: Review locations where busking is prohibited
You are not allowed to busk:
- Around the Stanley Park totem poles and gift shop
- Within 10 metres of the Gastown Steam Clock (corner of Water Street and Cambie Street)
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.
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, as well as all City and Park Board by-laws.

Read the guidelines (195 KB)

Performance durations and times
- Up to two performances are allowed on a street block face or park, 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 or in a different park. 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
- In parks, performances may take place only during normal park hours while the park is open to the public and must end by 10pm
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
Amplification at English Bay
- Amplification is not permitted in English Bay. Permission may be granted to use amplified sound in other parks if it doesn’t carry beyond park boundaries. To obtain permission, contact the Park Board office. Park Board staff will attend your performance and discuss the possibility with you
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 the Park Board, and 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
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 (195 KB)
- Permit fee (in cash, debit, or credit)
- Valid photo ID