Entertainment Licences: What You Need to Know
In addition to any licence required from the local council, it may also be necessary to obtain a licence, or licences, from the organisations that represent the owners of the music or videos you intend to play.
The following is a brief summary of what additional licence(s) may be required but you should contact the organisations detailed below for further information.
Performing Right Society (PRS) Licence
When music is played in public, the owner of the copyright is entitled, by law, to payment from the music user. The Performing Right Society is an organisation that collects and distributes this money, known as ‘royalties’, to its members – the owner of the copy, usually the composer or their publisher.
A PRS licence is required for the live performance or public playing of copyright music by any means. This includes jukeboxes, CD’s, video, radio, TV or live bands and discos. For further information contact PRS free on 08000 68 48 28 or www.prsformusic.com
Phonographic Performance Ltd (PPL) Licence
A PPL licence is needed for the public playing of original sound recordings e.g. CD’s, tapes or records, including jukeboxes and background music systems. PPL represent the record companies who own the copyright in the recording. In most circumstances when background music is provided, both the PRS and PPL licences are required.
For further information contact PPL on 020 7534 1000 or www.ppluk.com
Video Performance Ltd (VPL) Licence
A VPL licence is needed for the public playing of original sound recordings on the soundtracks of videos. VPL represent the video companies who own the copyright in the recording. For further information contact VPL on 020 7534 1000
Cinema or Restricted Films Licence
This may be necessary for the performance of films or if filming takes place during karaoke or by DJ’s.
Please contact the Licensing Team on 01429 523354 or licensing@hartlepool.gov.uk
Summary of Licence Requirements
| Activity | PRS | PPL* | VPL | Cinema Licence** | TV Licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jukebox | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| CD/Record/Tape | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Radio | ✔ | ||||
| Television (including satellite) | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Video/Films | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Live Music | ✔ | ||||
| DJs/ Dancing | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Karaoke | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Notes:
* PPL charges are sometimes included in rental charges by jukebox or music suppliers check with your agent for details.
** This licence is not required by all Local Authorities.