Perth and Kinross councillors have unanimously approved a Responsible Busking Code of Conduct for Perth city centre, following complaints about buskers being too loud, repetitive, and untuneful, as well as disputes between rival performers. The code, agreed at a full council meeting on June 17, establishes two designated busking zones, time limits, and a 50-metre audibility limit to manage noise.
Public Support and Consultation
The new code comes after a public consultation that received 182 responses, with 80 per cent supporting its introduction. While 75 per cent of respondents said they enjoy buskers, the majority agreed that a code of conduct was needed to manage busking in the city centre. The move aims to bring Perth in line with other cities that already have similar codes in place.
Designated Zones and Time Limits
Under the code, busking is permitted from Monday to Saturday between 10am and 6pm, and on Sundays from 12.30pm to 5pm. Two designated zones have been identified: the first is between Next and Marks and Spencer on the High Street, and the second runs from outside the former Debenhams building down to Waterstones on King Edward Street. Only one performance is allowed in each zone at any one time, and performers must not exceed two hours in a single location, with a three-hour break before returning.
Noise must not be audible clearly beyond 50 metres, and amplification is prohibited unless prior permission is granted by Perth and Kinross Council. Drumming must now form only a minor part of any performance.
Resident Relief and Council Support
David Adamson, a Perth High Street resident of 18 years who works from home, told the meeting he was “very grateful” to councillors for the proposal. He said: “It solves all the problems and does it amicably. If this comes into effect, it will have a life-changing effect on me and my work. It might seem like a small and insignificant problem. But I can’t understate how effective this will be from a quality of life perspective for me and my neighbours.”
Perth City Centre ward councillor Peter Barrett, who moved the code for approval, said: “It was very humbling to hear from local residents about the life-changing impact the code of conduct will have.” He described the code as a “clear and concise proposal which draws upon best practice from other local authorities who already had a code of conduct in place.” The code was seconded by fellow Perth City Centre ward councillor Chris Ahern and unanimously approved by the council.
Conduct and Enforcement
The code outlines clear expectations around obstruction, safety, and behaviour. Buskers cannot sell merchandise and must stop performing immediately if asked to do so by a police officer or council official. The council expects the code to improve the city centre environment for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
