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Busking
Busking is a long-standing tradition in Norwich, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. We aim to balance this with the needs of residents and businesses.
Busking guidelines
Norwich welcomes street performers who bring music, art, and energy to our city. These guidelines help ensure that busking remains enjoyable for everyone — performers, residents, businesses, and visitors.
Do I need a licence?
No licence is required to busk in Norwich. Just follow the guidelines below to perform safely and respectfully.
Where can I busk?
You can perform in most public spaces, but please avoid:
- Blocking entrances, fire exits, or cashpoints
- Areas with construction or roadworks (stay at least 50m away)
Suggested locations include:
- Gentleman’s Walk
- Haymarket & Hay Hill (opposite Primark)
- Castle Street & Davey Place junction
- St George’s Street (opposite the Playhouse)
- London Street
- Tombland (near Zizzi’s and Bond)
- St Gregory’s Green
- All Saints Green (near John Lewis and Strangers Coffee)
Performance timings
- busking is allowed between 10am and 10pm
- amplifiers must not be used after 9pm
- maximum time at one pitch: 2 hours
- leave at least 50 metres between you and other performers
If your set is short or repetitive, consider moving to a new location to avoid repeating material in the same spot.
Sound and amplification
- keep volume just above background street noise, not intrusive
- a good rule: if people can’t hold a conversation nearby, it’s too loud
- amplifiers must not be mains- or generator-powered
- if using an amp over 10 watts, keep the volume low to avoid distortion
What not to do
- don’t obstruct pedestrian flow
- don’t block entrances, exits, or cashpoints
- don’t use offensive or inappropriate content
- don’t sell merchandise (e.g. CDs) without a street trading licence
If complaints are made
- be respectful and reduce volume or move if asked
- council or police officers may ask you to stop - please comply
- repeated nuisance behaviour may lead to enforcement under:
- Environmental Protection Act 1990
- Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
- Control of Pollution Act 1974 (no amplification allowed 9pm–8am)
Safety and insurance
- performers are responsible for their own safety
- consider doing a risk assessment
- public liability insurance is recommended
Events and closures
Busking is not permitted in areas booked for council or third-party events unless agreed in advance. This includes road closures and licensed events.
Busking areas in Norwich
What to do if you are affected by buskers
If you are disturbed by unreasonable amounts of noise, please report it using our contact us form.
