Music Licensing Compliance Guide

Guide to music licensing requirements for restaurants, covering performing rights organizations, license types, and compliance procedures.

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What this document covers

Playing music in a restaurant — whether live, from speakers, streaming, or TV — requires proper licensing from Performing Rights Organizations (PROs). ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, and GMR each represent different catalogs of songs. Playing unlicensed music is copyright infringement with statutory damages of $750-$30,000 per song. Most restaurants need licenses from at least ASCAP and BMI.

Key sections included

Music use assessment
PRO license requirements (ASCAP/BMI/SESAC/GMR)
License cost estimator by venue size
Streaming service commercial licensing
Live music licensing procedures
DJ and karaoke licensing
Compliance record-keeping

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to play the radio?

Generally no — the Copyright Act has a limited exemption for small establishments playing radio/TV through a single receiver. But streaming services, playlists, and satellite radio all require separate commercial licenses.

How much does music licensing cost?

Depends on venue size, music type, and number of PROs. A typical restaurant pays $500-$2,000/year per PRO. Most need at minimum ASCAP ($400-$1,200/yr) and BMI ($400-$1,200/yr).

Document details

Legal basis: 17 USC §101-810 (Copyright Act); ASCAP/BMI/SESAC licensing
Enforced by: US Copyright Office / PROs (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, GMR)
Penalty for absence: Statutory damages $750-$30,000 per song played; willful infringement up to $150,000 per song; injunctions; attorney's fees.
Category: Licensing & Permits

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