Music can help shape the atmosphere in a hotel, restaurant or bar. It may welcome guests in reception, add energy to a dining room or provide entertainment during an event. But playing recorded music at a business can involve copyright permissions, including public performance rights, even when it comes from a radio, television or streaming service.
This guide explains the main music licensing points for UK hospitality businesses. Rules can depend on where and how music is used, so check the details of your premises and activities with the relevant licensing bodies or your local council.
What is TheMusicLicence?
Businesses that play or perform copyright music in public will usually need TheMusicLicence, issued by PPL PRS. It covers the rights represented by two organisations: PRS for Music, which represents songwriters, composers and music publishers, and PPL, which represents performers and recording rightsholders. Licence fees support royalties for music creators and those who contribute to recordings. One licence can cover many common uses of commercially released music, subject to its terms and the relevant tariff. (gov.uk)
In hospitality, “public” use can include playing music for customers or staff outside a domestic setting. This may include background music in a dining room, a radio in the kitchen, live performances in a bar, or music and television in hotel guest bedrooms. (pplprs.co.uk)
Which hospitality activities may need a music licence?
A business may need a licence for more than one type of music use. Common examples include:
- Background music played through a radio, television, CD player or digital device
- Live music, such as a singer, band or open-mic night
- DJ sets, discos, karaoke and other featured entertainment
- Music played in guest bedrooms, reception areas, corridors, bars or staff spaces
- Copyright music included in television broadcasts shown at the venue
The licence and fee depend on the venue and how music is used. Hotels, restaurants and cafés have specific tariff categories, and different activities or areas may need to be reported when requesting a quote. (pplprs.co.uk)
Does a radio or streaming subscription cover business use?
Not necessarily. A radio station’s broadcast permission or a personal streaming subscription does not, by itself, usually provide the public performance rights needed to play copyright music at a business. Check both the terms of your music service and whether your venue’s licence covers the way you play music. (pplprs.co.uk)
If you use a music provider designed for businesses, confirm what rights its service includes. Do not assume that a playlist, device or subscription is cleared for customer-facing use just because it works technically.
Music licensing and premises licences are different
A common point of confusion is the difference between TheMusicLicence and a premises licence or other authorisation for regulated entertainment.
TheMusicLicence relates to copyright permissions for music. A premises licence, or other local authority authorisation, relates to whether certain entertainment activities are permitted at that venue under licensing rules. These are separate matters, so meeting one requirement does not automatically meet the other. (gov.uk)
Some entertainment activities may be exempt from premises-licensing requirements in specific circumstances. For example, recorded music at certain alcohol-licensed premises may not need separate premises-licence authorisation when conditions such as hours and audience size are met. That does not by itself remove the need to check copyright licensing. Confirm the rules for your location and event with your local council. (gov.uk)
What hotels should check
Hotels may use music in several distinct areas, including reception, restaurants, bars, corridors and guest bedrooms. Make a list of where music is audible and how it is delivered, including televisions, radios, live performances and any guest-facing entertainment. The relevant tariff may treat these uses differently. (pplprs.co.uk)
For weddings, conferences and other private functions, check whether the hotel’s existing licence covers the planned music use. If you organise a one-off event or introduce a new type of entertainment, contact PPL PRS to confirm whether your licence needs to be updated or a temporary permit is appropriate. (pplprs.co.uk)
How to check what your venue needs
A few practical steps can help you understand your requirements:
- List each area where music is played. Include customer spaces, staff areas and guest bedrooms.
- Record how music is used. Note background playback, radio or TV, live music, DJs, karaoke and events.
- Check your current licence details. Make sure the permitted uses match what happens at the venue.
- Ask about changes before they happen. A new event format, additional area or change in music use could affect your licence.
- Check entertainment rules separately. Contact your local council about premises licensing or other authorisation for events.
PPL PRS can provide a quote based on your venue and music use. Costs vary, so use current guidance from the licensing body rather than relying on an old estimate. (pplprs.co.uk)
Build music into your hospitality plans
Music can support the guest experience, from a calm hotel lounge to a lively restaurant event. Planning for licensing early helps you choose suitable music, organise entertainment and check that your permissions match your venue’s activities.
Because the details depend on your location, premises and music use, treat this article as a starting point, not legal advice. Check the current requirements with PPL PRS and your local council before playing or performing music at your business. (gov.uk)
