Permits for Music, Film, Creative Space & Special Events

Several departments in the City of Austin work with businesses and residents on permitting processes for a variety of needs. Please see below to learn more and contact information for the appropriate department.

Amplified Sound for Music

Outdoor Music Venue Permits
Contact Brian Block in the City of Austin Development Services Department for information on permit requirements and application.

• Issued to outdoor live music venues for amplified sound.
• Apply for an OMV Permit, click here.
• Applicant Prepared Notice Agreement, click here.

Outdoor Amplified Music in Residential Neighborhoods

• Outdoor Music Venue 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 Production

• Visit Filming in Austin - Permits for information on required permits for film production in Austin.
• Learn about City of Austin and other available Film & Digital Media Production Incentives.
• For general information on filming in Austin, visit Austin Film Commission. ​​​

Creative Space Assistance

Creative Space Assistance Program

• The Creative Space Assistance Program supports creative organizations facing temporary or permanent displacement or new commercial leases at higher and unaffordable rates. 

Development Process Team
The Development Process Team within the Development Services Department supports small businesses and homeowners through the permitting and development processes:

• Provides information about the development process.
• Offers a single point of contact for the duration of your project.
• Connects you with the right resources every step of the way.
• Contact the Development Process Team at (512) 974-1040 or DevelopmentProcessTeam@austintexas.gov

Heritage Tourism Division

• The Heritage Tourism Division provides funding for preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of historic buildings, sites, and districts.

Souly Austin

• Souly Austin provides neighborhood business district development assistance and support.

Austin Cultural Trust

• The Austin Cultural Trust supports acquisition and preservation of arts, cultural, and music spaces within Austin.

Special Event Permits

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 Performing / Busking

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. Contact 512-974-6797 for information.

State of Texas Regulations & Tax Requirements for Venues / Special Events

• Texas Music Office Special Events Guide