Playing music in public can require a variety of licences. Firstly, it is possible that a Premises licence must be obtained from the Council or a Temporary Events Notice given unless the music is incidental to something else - for example, background music in a shop. There are a number of other exemptions, including where the music is played as part of a religious service or there is no audience but care must be taken not to fall foul of the law as the penalties are very severe.

In addition, there are Royalty issues and licences may be needed from the Performing Rights Society and/or Phonographic Performance Limited. Please visit their websites for futher details.