Unveiling Your Vision: Permits and Licences for Public Art & Street Performances
Turn Public Spaces into Your Stage: The Essential Permit Guide
every industry needs a leader
•
empower the leader in you
•
every industry needs a leader • empower the leader in you •
Bringing your artistic vision to life in a public space can be incredibly rewarding. However, before captivating audiences with your street performance or unveiling your installation, it's crucial to understand the permitting process. The specific requirements will vary depending on your location and the nature of your project, but this guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the bureaucratic landscape.
Public Art Installations:
Understanding the Landscape: Public art encompasses a wide range of creations, from sculptures and murals to interactive exhibits. The first step is to identify the location for your installation. Will it be displayed in a park, on a sidewalk, or perhaps attached to a building? Knowing the location will determine the permitting authority you need to contact.
Parks Department: Parks are popular spots for temporary art installations. Many cities have a dedicated department overseeing parks and recreation. This department will likely have guidelines and application processes for public art displays. For instance, the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation offers a Temporary Public Art Program, which outlines the application process and selection criteria for showcasing art in parks across the city.
Department of Transportation: Public art can also enhance transportation infrastructure. Look for departments managing streets, sidewalks, and plazas. These departments might have programs specifically designed for integrating art into public spaces. For example, the New York City Department of Transportation has a DOT Art program that partners with artists to create temporary art installations in various locations.
Other Considerations: Depending on the scale and complexity of your installation, additional permits might be necessary. For instance, if your artwork requires anchoring into the ground or attaching to a building, you might need construction permits. It's always best to consult with the relevant department to ensure you have all the necessary approvals.
Street Performances:
Amplification is Key: The use of amplification significantly impacts the permitting process for street performances. Un amplified performances in designated areas might require minimal permissions. However, if your act involves amplified music or sound effects, you'll likely need a permit.
Local Precinct: Many cities authorise permits for amplified street performances through the local police precinct. The precinct's Community Affairs Office often handles such applications. Contact your local precinct to inquire about the specific permit process and any associated fees. In New York City, for instance, street performers using amplification require a daily permit obtained from the local police precinct's Community Affairs Office.
Designated Zones: Some cities have designated zones specifically for street performances. These zones might have limitations on performance duration, sound levels, or types of acts permitted. Performing outside designated zones might require additional permissions or might not be allowed at all. Research your city's regulations to ensure you're performing in the right location.
Community Board Approval: In some cases, particularly for larger or more permanent public art installations, approval from the local community board might be necessary. Community boards typically represent specific neighbourhoods and have a say in matters affecting the area. Check with your city's administration to see if community board approval applies to your project.
General Tips:
Plan Ahead: The permitting process can take time, so plan in advance. Factor in permit application lead times and potential revisions requested by the authorities.
Contact the Right Department: Don't hesitate to contact the relevant department responsible for permits. They can clarify specific requirements and guide you through the application process.
Be Prepared: Have all the necessary documentation ready when applying for permits. This might include project details, artist biographies, and proof of insurance, if required.
Embrace Collaboration: Public art and street performances often thrive on collaboration. Consider partnering with local arts organisations or community groups who might have experience navigating the permitting process.
By understanding the permitting landscape and planning accordingly, you can ensure your public art installation or street performance becomes a reality, enriching your community and captivating audiences. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in transforming your artistic vision into a vibrant addition to the public space.
Information published to or by The Industry Leader will never constitute legal, financial or business advice of any kind, nor should it ever be misconstrued or relied on as such. For individualized support for yourself or your business, we strongly encourage you to seek appropriate counsel.
