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Special Events in Austin
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.
Amplified Sound
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
Creative Space Permitting & Development Support
The Development Process Team supports small businesses and homeowners through the permitting and development process by:
- Providing information about the development process.
- Offering a single point of contact for the duration of your project.
- Connecting you with the right resources every step of the way.
Contact the Development Process Team at (512) 974-1040 or DevelopmentProcessTeam@austintexas.gov
Film & Media Production
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Click here for film & media production information for required permits in Austin.
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:
- Special Events and Permits for Music, Creative Space & Film
Informs and connects music, special event, and film communities to other City departments and agencies for permits in Austin. - Community Engagement
Musicians and Live Music & Entertainment Venues
Convenes stakeholders about new and updated policies and rules to inform and gather community feedback.
2020 Live Music Fund Community Engagement
Process with music stakeholders to form Music Commission recommendations for Cultural Funding grant guidelines and implementation related to the "Live Music Fund".
2019 Entertainment & Amplified Sound Compatibility Community Engagement
Process to identify and promote compatibility goals between live music & entertainment venues and Austin residents.