🎵 Music Licensing Beyond The Obvious: What Few UK Businesses Know
Most business owners already know they need a PPL PRS licence to play music publicly. But there are several lesser-known rules and exceptions that many overlook. Knowing these can help you stay compliant, avoid unnecessary costs, or even reduce your licensing exposure altogether.
🧠 1. Music for employees still counts
Even if you're only playing music for your staff in a warehouse, back office, kitchen or staff room, you're still required to hold a music licence. The law considers any use of recorded music in a business setting as a public performance unless it's in a private residence with no clients, customers or colleagues.
A solo business owner working alone from home might be exempt, but only if there are no visitors and no other people in the space.
🧾 2. Royalty-free music isn't automatically exempt
Many businesses try to get around licensing by using royalty-free, public domain or Creative Commons music. That can be valid, but you're expected to verify that every track is genuinely out of PPL PRS control. If it's not, you could still be charged.
If you’re using music from a supplier or streaming service that claims to be licence-free, make sure you get that confirmed in writing.
📞 3. Hold music on your phone system? That’s licensable too
Music played while callers are on hold is also classed as public performance. Even if the rest of your business is silent, a simple hold loop using Spotify or digital audio could mean you need a licence.
If your telecoms provider supplies hold music, check whether it includes any relevant licensing or whether it's your responsibility.
🎭 4. Simulcast events and theatres follow different rules
If you're running an event space, theatre, or live-streaming venue, the licensing rules aren't always the same. In some cases, music use is charged as a percentage of ticket sales rather than a flat fee. There are also some musical works that aren't covered by PPL PRS at all, meaning you'll need to get direct permission from the rights holder.
🏡 5. Some small guesthouses may be exempt
If you're running a B&B or self-catering holiday let, you might be exempt from licensing in certain situations. This typically only applies if the music is played in private areas for guests and not in any shared or public space. But the moment you add a dining room, shared lounge, or communal area with music, you’re usually back within licensing territory.
✅ How PlayLegal can help
We help businesses spot edge cases, avoid overpaying, and stay compliant without confusion. That includes:
Reviewing whether your current setup actually needs a licence
Challenging incorrect charges or classifications
Verifying royalty-free usage with documented support
Helping you reduce your licence footprint lawfully
Music licensing isn't always black and white. If you're in one of these grey zones and want to make sure you're protected — or not paying for something you don't legally need — let’s talk.
