Sydney busking code
Your guide to busking in the City of Sydney area. Learn where you can perform, the rules you need to follow and how to share space with other buskers.
The busking code explains the rules for performing in the City of Sydney, including how to share pitches and perform safely.
The updated busking policy and code changes begins on Tuesday 4 August 2026.
Takeaways
Busking acts in Sydney are grouped into 3 types:
- low impact – small or quiet acts
- high impact – louder or larger acts
- extended duration acts – acts that are quiet but run for longer than 2 hours.
Special busking sites have extra rules, including Martin Place, Hyde Park, QVB forecourt, Pitt Street Mall and George Street.
Use the Sydney busking code: digital guide
For the easiest way to understand and view the rules on the go, use the Sydney busking code: digital guide.
The guide:
- shows what you can and can’t do based on your act
- includes a quick quiz to help you confirm your act type
- helps you find suitable pitches
- provides updates on temporary pitch closures and event changes.
Before you start busking
- Check you have a valid busking permit
- Use the Sydney busking code: digital guide to find a suitable pitch
- Check for pitch closures or event changes
- Follow time limits and the rules for sharing special busking sites
Busking alerts
Check here for current alerts including closures, events or other changes that affect where and when you can busk.
Tell us about a busking issue
If you see a busker not following the Sydney busking code, you can report it online or call us on 02 9265 9333 any day, anytime.
We investigate every report we receive and take appropriate action where needed.
