Busking
in Ames
|
| The
popularity of street entertainment is growing in urban areas
around the country, including Ames. In order to make this a
pleasurable experience for all involved, the following
suggestions are intended to promote safety and encourage
communication between buskers and managers or patrons of
establishments in the City’s commercial areas. |
Tips
for Buskers
|
- Look for
signs in windows of adjoining establishments indicating that
buskers are welcome in front of that address.
- Be sure
that you are on public property and not blocking any
doorways leading into/out of the building.
- Introduce yourself to the manager/operator of the
establishment, and let him or her know what you will be
planning to do and for how long (recommended time limit of 2
hours).
- Should
any complaints be received about your performance, cooperate
with the business owner or City official responding to the
complaint. Try to resolve any conflicts with another busker
between yourselves.
-
Remember
that many ages and backgrounds will be represented in
your potential audience and they may have a variety of
preferences.
|
Tips for
Establishments
|
-
If
you are encouraging entertainment in front of your
establishment, be sure to display a sign indicating that
buskers are welcome near your business.
-
Compliment and encourage those buskers whom you and your
patrons appreciate. If any problems occur, try to work
things out between yourselves first.
-
If
you or your customers have expectations about what types
of entertainment are acceptable near your business,
communicate those expectations clearly and up front.
|
Applicable City Regulations
|
|
A number
of ordinances limit how street activities may be conducted,
specifically, in the areas of access, sales, and level of
sound.
-
Street Vending: In order to sell CD’s or any other
items, a vending license is required from the City.
-
Noise: Sound levels are generally limited to 65
decibels in a commercial area. Beyond that, a noise
permit is required from the Police Department.
-
Sidewalk Obstruction: A minimum of four feet of
sidewalk must be kept clear at all times to allow for
the passage of traffic. Also, access to parking meters
should not be restricted. A permit may be required if
you intend to set up equipment that is not readily
movable.
-
If
any electrical equipment requiring an AC outlet is used,
please contact the City Manager’s Office (239-5101).
|
Busker
“Do’s and Don’ts:”
|
-
DO
register with the City Clerk’s Office before performing
(free), and wear a name badge or some form of
identification.
-
DON’T
approach people and ask for money. Accepting voluntary
donations is fine. Soliciting is not!
-
DO
encourage those listening to your presentation not to
block the sidewalk or entrance to any nearby business.
-
DON’T
use public electrical outlets in Tom Evans Plaza or
anywhere else in the Cultural District without first
checking with the City Manager’s Office.
-
DO
realize that locations for performing are first-come,
first-served. Areas may not be reserved or considered a
proprietary location for any particular busker.
-
DON’T
leave trash or refuse behind.
-
DO
be sure that any equipment or property you may have is
attended at all times.
|
|
If you
have any questions about performing on City streets in Ames,
please contact the Main Street Cultural District Office at
(515) 233-3472 or the City Manager’s Office at (515)
239-5101. |
Busker-friendly
Businesses
|
For information on
locations where buskers are encouraged to perform, contact
the Main Street Cultural District (MSCD) Office at (515)
233-3472. A partial list, as of July 2007, includes:
- Healthwise
Resources
- Ames 365.com
- Temptations on
Main
- Quilting
Connection
- Great Stuff
- Everts Flowers
- Ames Farmers'
Market
- Ames Historical
Society
- Worldly Goods
|
|
Busker Registration Form |
