Buskers will now be able to perform in one location for up to 120 minutes before they must move to a new spot, councillors decided during Tuesday’s council meeting.
This was one of the recommended amendments to the City of Merritt’s Busking/Street Entertainment policy.
Besides the length of time, the city will now allow up to four performers per block and allow artists to display a portfolio as long as it doesn’t exceed two metres in length. Finally, buskers/street entertainers cannot be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while in public.
In 2009, council decided that with some basic regulations, street entertainment was a positive addition to the downtown core.
Buskers purchase an annual permit for $25 and may sell recordings of their original work during a performance without a business license.
If an entertainer fails to comply with guidelines, or if the City receives complaints about the entertainer, the permit may be suspended or revoked.
