Busking

Street performances within our municipality contribute to the lively ambiance of our bustling shopping precincts. A busker is described as an individual who performs music or other entertainment in a public place for monetary donations.

To maintain the safety and enjoyment of pedestrians, Council oversees busking activities in these areas.

Do I require a permit to busk?

You will require a permit if you want to busk in a public place. You can apply for a permit by completing an application form and returning it to Council with all relevant documents and accompanying fee.  With a permit, busking is permitted on:

  • Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am and 5.30pm
  • Saturdays between the hours of 9am to 12 noon

Busking is not permitted on Sundays.

How to apply

Mail

Step 1.Prepare your supporting documents

As part of your application you will need to provide:

  • written approval from the business proprietors situated adjacent to the location you intend to perform
  • Proof of $20 million Public Liability Insurance including dates of coverage or you can purchase Council’s Casual Hirers Insurance

Step 2.Download the application form

Application for Busking Permit(PDF, 229KB)

Step 3.Prepare a cheque or money order

Payable to 'Swan Hill Rural City Council' and crossed 'Not Negotiable'

Step 4.Send us your application

Send your completed application, supporting documents and cheque or money order to

Swan Hill Rural City Council
PO Box 488
Swan Hill
VIC 3585

In person

Step 1.Prepare your supporting documents

As part of your application you will need to provide:

  • written approval from the business proprietors situated adjacent to the location you intend to perform
  • Proof of $20 million Public Liability Insurance including dates of coverage or you can purchase Council’s Casual Hirers Insurance

Step 2.Download the application form

Application for Busking Permit(PDF, 229KB)

Step 3.Prepare a cheque or money order

Payable to 'Swan Hill Rural City Council' and crossed 'Not Negotiable'

Step 4.Visit us

Bring your completed application, supporting documents and cheque or money order to 

Customer service

45 Splatt Street
Swan Hill
VIC 3585

72 Herbert Street
Robinvale
VIC 3549

View our opening hours

Fees

Busking 2024/25 fees
Application fee $12
Daily performance fee $6 per day
Council’s Casual Hirers Insurance. Conditions apply. Not required if you hold your own Public Liability insurance of $20 million $36.50

What happens next?

Allow up to 5 business days for processing. Failure to supply all relevant documentation will result in a delay in processing.

Busking permit conditions

  • No amplified music
  • You must not perform on the walkway zone (must be at least two metres from the shop front window)
  • Music noise must not be audible 20 metres from the source
  • Busking will only be allowed to take place between the hours of 9am and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday and 9am to 12noon on Saturdays
  • The permit is only valid for the timeframe stated on the Council issued certificate
  • You may only play for a maximum of 30 minutes at any one time and then a minimum ten minute break must be taken
  • You must not interfere with any other authorised busking acts that may be performing at the same time as you
  • You must not solicit money or interfere with any members of the public
  • You must obey any direction given to you by a member of Victoria Police or a Council Authorised Officer

Contact us

Phone

03 5036 2333

 

Email

locallaws@swanhill.vic.gov.au

 

Location

45 Splatt Street
Swan Hill
VIC 3585
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