Busking

Inner West Council supports artists/performers, and values the vibrancy, vitality and cultural expression of urban areas.

Find information about the busking application process here.

Busking application process

To register to busk within the Inner West Local Government Area you will need to complete the online busking registration.

After you have registered, your application for a busking permit will be reviewed. Once your application for a busking permit is approved, you will receive a notification message that includes your busking permit number, which you will be required to carry with you each time you busk.

Permit costs

There is no fee attached to register to busk, however, your permit is only valid for one year and you will be required to renew that registration upon the expiration date.

Areas where busking is permitted

Busking is permitted in the main streets/urban centres in the Inner West Local Government Area.

The most appropriate busking areas are locations which are open, have room to cater for buskers and are not used for a specific purpose (such as a bus stop).

Examples of appropriate busking areas include a public bench, plaza, wide footpaths and outdoor dining areas that are not in-use.

Conditions where buskers are not permitted to busk

Areas that already have approved public events taking place
If you do not have official approval from Council
Along Liverpool Road, Ashfield (except in front of the Ashfield Civic Centre)

For further information please refer to the Busking Policy (PDF 427.4KB)

Physical distancing rules for managing crowds

We encourage certain types of busking while maintaining physical distancing, it is your responsibility to manage your crowds in line with NSW Public Health Orders and restrictions.

You must keep 1.5m from others and practice good hand hygiene and audiences to keep 1.5 m from other people.

NSW Government COVID-19 Rules

Please keep up to date with NSW Government COVID-19 rules and restrictions to ensure your activity is permitted and you comply with current restrictions.