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Amplified Sound
Outdoor Music Venue Permits
Issued to outdoor live music venues for amplified sound:
- Apply for an OMV Permit click here.
- Applicant Prepared Notice Agreement click here.
- Contact Brian Block for information on permit requirements and application.
Outdoor Amplified Music in Residential Neighborhoods
- OMV Permits may not be issued for the use of sound equipment located within 100 feet of property zoned and used as "residential".
- Amplified sound without a permit is only allowed in residential areas 10am to 10pm CST and up to 75 decibels.
Noise Ordinance: Chapter 9-2: Noise and Amplified Sound
Film & Media Production
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Click here for film & media production information for required permits in Austin.
Special Events
Austin Center for Events (ACE)
Oversees permitting and planning for special events and festivals:
- Event safety guidelines, Special Event Updates: COVID-19.
- Special Event Permit and planning information, ACE Planning Guide.
- Special Event Permit outdoor amplified sound requirements, ACE Planning Guide Section.
Street Performance
Street performing (a.k.a. "busking") is legal in Austin and does not require a permit unless you are performing in a City park. Please obey the following City Code requirements and best practices:
- Acoustic performances only, with sound at 85 decibels or under - NO amplification allowed.
- Don’t block sidewalks.
- Noise or music cannot be audible to a nearby business or residence after 10:30 PM CST.
- Always cooperate with Austin Police requests.
- Safety first! Make sure you’re performing where people can safely gather without danger of stepping into a roadway.
- Performing Artists in the Parks Permits: Performing artists are allowed to entertain in the parks provided they are registered with and approved by the Parks and Recreation Department. The permit fee for performing artists is $10 per day, and permits may be purchased in two-week increments. Please call 512-974-6797 for information.
State of Texas Regulations & Tax Requirements for Venues / Special Events
Music & Entertainment Services
Serves as an ombudsman and resource for creatives and creative businesses about City operating, permitting, and code enforcement requirements, and acts as a liaison for these groups to other City Departments. Contact Kim McCarson for details:
- Amplified Sound & Film Permits
- Connects music, special event, and film producers to City departments and other agencies for permits in Austin.
- Live Music & Entertainment Venues
- Convenes venue operators to inform these stakeholders about new and updated policies and rules, as well as to gather feedback.
- Connects venues that may require permits with other City departments.
- Coordinates engagement between venues and other stakeholders to find equitable solutions and compromises for amplified sound compatibility.
- Community Engagement
- Entertainment & Amplified Sound Compatibility Community Engagement is a process to identify and promote compatibility goals between live music & entertainment venues and Austin residents.
- Live Music Fund Community Engagement is a process with music industry stakeholders to form Music Commission recommendations to City Council & Mayor for Cultural Funding grant guidelines and implementation related to the "Live Music Fund".