Salem, MA Busking Rules & Permits for October 2026

Street performing, or busking, in Salem, Massachusetts, especially during the busy month of October, is governed by specific rules and regulations designed to balance the vibrant street performance culture with the peace and quiet of residents and the needs of businesses. This guide summarizes the key regulations for buskers in Salem, MA, effective October 2025, which are expected to remain largely consistent for October 2026.

General Performance Guidelines

Permitted Activities: "Perform" includes acting, singing, playing musical instruments, pantomime, juggling, magic, dancing, reading, puppetry, and sidewalk art (using non-permanent, water-soluble media). It does not include selling items or services like face painting for which specific payment is requested, as this is considered vending.
Performance Hours: Performances may take place daily from 11 AM to 8 PM, subject to specific noise restrictions.
Contributions: Performers may request contributions, but no sign requesting contributions shall exceed 12x12 inches, and no set fee can be required. Contributions can be received in receptacles like open instrument cases, boxes, or hats.
Props: All props must be portable and easily moved. They cannot be attached to city or private property (poles, bollards, buildings) and should not be left unattended.
Minors: Performers under 16 years of age must be supervised by an adult.

Permitted Locations

Performances are generally allowed in public areas, with some exceptions:

Prohibited Zones: No performances are allowed within 100 feet of an elementary/secondary school, library, or church while in session, or a hospital at any time. The Chief of Police may also exclude specific public areas for safety reasons.
Private Property: Performances on private property require written permission from the owner.
Street Fairs/Festivals: During authorized street fairs or public festivals (e.g., on the Common, Derby Square, Charlotte Forten Park), performances require permission from the event sponsor.

Noise Regulations (October Specific)

Salem has strict noise ordinances, particularly during October. Performers must not exceed designated sound levels measured 15 feet from the performance area. Key restrictions include:

General Decibel Limits:
- 68 decibels between 8 PM and 10 AM.
- 72 decibels between 10 AM and 8 PM in certain areas (e.g., 173-259 Essex Street, Central Street, Cervoni Walkway, Derby Square).
- 79 decibels between 10 AM and 8 PM in other specific areas (e.g., 137-161 Essex Street, Washington Street, 15 Derby Square).
Amplified Sound Prohibition in October: With the exception of public safety announcements, the use of loudspeakers, amplifiers, public address systems, or similar devices is prohibited on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the month of October in specified areas (including parts of Essex Street and adjacent sidewalks). On October 31st, these devices may be used between 4 PM and 10 PM within the decibel limits.
Residential Complaints: If a resident complains, and the sound level inside their dwelling exceeds 50 decibels and is at least 10 dB(A) above background noise, the performer must reduce the sound or move.

Crowd Management & Spacing

Public Passage: Performers must not unduly interfere with public passage. If a crowd obstructs the public way, police may disperse the crowd. Performers will only be asked to leave if other means of restoring public safety fail.
Performer Spacing: Performers or groups should generally maintain a distance of at least 25 feet from other performers, with exceptions for those not generating excessive noise or attracting large crowds (e.g., costume characters, balloon twisters).

Prohibited Activities

Use of fire or weapons (regardless of authenticity).
Selling items.

For a detailed map of performance areas and specific decibel limits, refer to the official document on the City of Salem website or contact the Salem Licensing Board.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and not legal advice. Always consult official city ordinances or legal counsel for specific situations.