Performing Rights - Music Copyright Licences

Music users need copyright licences for playing or performing music in public. Find out who issues these licences and how to apply. Also see 'Licences for public entertainment' for Premises Licences issued by the Council, and information about buskers and temporary outdoor events.

If you play or perform music in public, a licence fee must be paid to the Performing Rights Society (PRS) for the copyright in the musical and lyrical composition, which is distributed to composers and publishers.

If the music is played in public on sound recordings such as CDs or tapes, an additional licence fee is also required for the sound recording copyright, paid to Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL) and distributed to record companies and performers.

Performing Rights Society (PRS)

Use the links on the right to apply for PRS licences to play or supply music on business premises or to stage live music events.

There are PRS Hospitality Music Licences for pubs, bars, restaurants, cafes, hotels and guest houses. Nightclubs and members clubs can apply for a Clubs Music Licence. There are also PRS licences for beauty and fitness, retail and workplaces.

You can contact the Performing Rights Society on freephone 08000 68 48 28, or email musiclicence@prs.co.uk

Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL)

For sound recordings, use the link on the right to the PPL website, to apply for Public Performance Licences for businesses.

You can download a fact sheet in PDF format from their website, explaining when a licence is required - select Music Users, Playing Music in Public, More Information.

You can contact Phonographic Performance Ltd on 020 7534 1000 or email ppo.info@ppluk.com

The licences described on this page are not issued by the Council. You should contact the relevant organisations direct. We are not able to answer enquiries about licences we do not issue.