Street Performer Permit

Per Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 6.112.010, the City of Santa Monica believes that street performers enhance the character of the City, but that gathered crowds can cause serious safety problems and impact the abilities of personnel and pedestrians to navigate. The Chapter was written to balance the rights of First Amendment activities for street performers with the safety of the performers, their audience, local businesses, and the general public. It includes time, place, and manner restrictions in regards to public performances.

A performer permit is required when performing on the Third Street Promenade, Pier, Buffer Zone and Transit Mall unless the performance occurs prior to 12 noon on non-holiday Mondays through Fridays.

How to apply

Our office is located in City Hall East at 1685 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401.

Each performer requires an individual performer permit.

APPLY VIA EMAIL

For fast and easy processing, follow these steps:

  • Email us at business.license@santamonica.gov with the following attachments:
    • Completed Performer Permit Application
    • One photo clearly showing your face with no hat or sunglasses
    • For performers under the age of 16 only: California Entertainment Work Permit. Information on how to obtain a California Entertainment Work Permit can be found on the Department of Industrial Relations website.
  • Wait for us to process the application and provide you instructions for payment in the amount of $37 (1-2 business days).
  • Once payment is received, we will mail your permit to the mailing address on file.

APPLY IN PERSON

To apply in person, come to our office with the following:

  • Completed Performer's Permit Application
  • Two identical passport-type photographs (approximately 2 inches square) clearly showing your face with no hat or sunglasses
  • Current photo ID such as a driver's license or state ID card, passport, or student ID
  • Payment in the amount of $37.00 (cash, debit, or credit)
  • For performers under the age of 16 only: California Entertainment Work Permit. Information on how to obtain a California Entertainment Work Permit can be found on the Department of Industrial Relations website.
  • Once the above process is complete, we will mail your permit to the mailing address on file.

Important Information & Forms

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