Responsible Busking Code of Conduct
Perth and Kinross Council · 17 June 2026
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Perth and Kinross Council Date of Meeting: 17 June 2026 Report Title: Responsible Busking Code of Conduct Report Number: 26/177 Report Author: Emily Queen, City and Town Centre Management Officer – Business Place and Investment Organisational Lead: Serge Merone, Strategic Lead – Economy, Development and Planning ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 On Wednesday, January 14 Perth City Centre ward Councillors Peter Barrett and Bailie Chris Ahern successfully tabled a motion instructing council officers to prepare a busking code of conduct. The purpose of this report is to seek Committee approval for the adoption of a Responsible Busking Code of Conduct for Perth city centre. The proposed Code of Conduct aims to support and encourage street entertainment while ensuring that busking activity does not cause nuisance, obstruction, or disturbance to businesses, residents, or visitors. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendations 3. Main Issues 4. Proposals 5. Conclusion 6. Impact Value Assessment 7. Appendices
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2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Council: 2.1 Approves the Responsible Busking – Code of Conduct as set out in Appendix 1. 2.2 Agrees that the Code of Conduct be implemented on a non-licensing basis, supported through monitoring and enforcement by Council enforcement officers in partnership with Police Scotland. 2.3 Notes that the Code will be reviewed after an initial 12-month period to assess effectiveness and inform any future amendments. 3. Main Issues 3.1 Busking and street performance contribute positively to the vibrancy, culture, and economic vitality of city centres. When managed appropriately, busking can enhance the visitor experience and animate public spaces. However, the Council has received concerns from local businesses, residents, and visitors regarding noise levels, obstruction, and prolonged or repetitive performances in certain locations. 3.2 At present, there is no formal Code of Conduct in place to provide clarity for performers, businesses, and enforcement officers on acceptable standards of behaviour and operation. 3.3 Under Section 54 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, Police Scotland has powers to require a performer to stop if their activity is causing disturbance. The proposed Code of Conduct supports the proportionate use of these powers through clear expectations and guidance. 3.4 Balancing vibrancy with amenity The key challenge is balancing the positive contribution of busking with the need to maintain a pleasant and accessible city centre environment. 3.5 Noise and repetition Unregulated amplification, continuous noise, and repetitive performances can negatively affect businesses, residents, and other city centre users. 3.6 Pedestrian safety and accessibility Busking activity can, if unmanaged, restrict pedestrian movement, block shop entrances, or impact those with mobility or visibility impairments.
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3.7 Lack of clarity for performers Without clear guidance, performers may be unaware of acceptable locations, times, and standards, increasing the risk of complaints or enforcement action. 4. Proposals 4.1 It is proposed that the Council formally adopts the enclosed Responsible Busking – Code of Conduct, which sets out: • Permitted days and times for busking • Noise restrictions, including a 50-metre audibility limit • Controls on amplification and drumming • Designated busking zones and time limits per location • Clear expectations around obstruction, safety, and behaviour 4.2 The Code establishes two designated busking zones within the city centre, with only one performer permitted in each zone at any one time. 4.3 The approach is deliberately non-licensing, reducing administrative burden while enabling officers to address issues quickly and proportionately. 4.4 Council enforcement officers will continue to monitor city centre activity and engage with performers to encourage compliance, escalating to Police Scotland where required. 4.5 Consultation (appendix 2) A public consultation was published from 29th April to 8th May. Summary of results: 182 responses (8 business responses) 75% enjoyed buskers 80% agreed to implementing a busking code of conduct 65% agreed with the proposed busking zones 62% agreed with the permitted days and times 69% agreed with other restrictions 5. Conclusion 5.1 The proposed Responsible Busking – Code of Conduct provides a clear, balanced, and proportionate framework for managing busking activity in the city centre. 5.2 The Code supports cultural vibrancy while protecting public amenity, accessibility, and business interests. 5.3 Adoption of the Code will provide clarity for performers and stakeholders, reduce disputes, and support consistent enforcement.
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6. Impact Value Assessment (link to follow) 7. Appendices 7.1 Appendix 1: Responsible Busking Code of Conduct 7.2 Appendix 2: Consultation Report