The primary purpose of SFMA is to provide access to fresh local food and handmade goods to the community; and to create an avenue for growers, bakers and artisans to reach the community. Buskers are an asset to the atmosphere of the market, but the rights of the market vendors take precedence over the rights of the buskers.
Buskers must check-in at the Market Information Booth before setting up. Market busking spots are not guaranteed and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with room for one (or occasionally 2) performers. On some days we cannot accommodate buskers, depending on the layout, other planned events, and acoustics of the space. Buskers are allowed a limited time to play (60-minute sets, in rotating spots, per market day). If you are a poet, only 3 poets are allowed at a time.
All buskers must register by reading and agreeing to our busking rules and paying the annual $35 fee. The fee will go towards our 501(c)3 Non-Profit, FARMore, WA who raises emergency relief funds for our local farmers.
Buskers must hold a valid busking permit that is always visible while performing.
Buskers must cooperate with adjacent vendors. Should the market receive one complaint from any vendor regarding a performance, the onsite manager will investigate and determine appropriate action. Market staff have the authority to move and reassign performer spots to facilitate market operations.
Buskers must play ONLY in designated Busking zones.
Buskers must play acoustically. If you have amplification, you are allowed to play in the designated “low amp” zones. Market Management may ask you to turn down your amp. If you refuse, you will be asked to leave immediately, and your permit will be revoked.
Any busker determined by the Market Manager to not be complying with the market rules will have their busking permit revoked and will not be allowed to busk at our markets.
Busker’s performances must not interfere with market operations or any vendor’s ability to do business.
Do not argue with Market Management regarding our rules. The rights of the market vendors take precedence over the rights of the buskers.
Buskers that perform under the influence of alcohol or any controlled or illegal substance will be asked to leave, and their permit will be revoked.
Buskers must ensure that the performance area is not blocking the flow of public movement and that it does not interfere with the fire lane. It is your responsibility to instruct people to move closer if a crowd develops.
SFMA is not liable for any injury, theft, or damage to either the busker or their property arising out of, or pertaining to, the preparation or participation; whether such injury, theft, or damage occurred prior, during, or after the market, the busker agrees to indemnify and hold the market harmless for and against any claims for such injury, theft or damage. Buskers are responsible for the security of their possessions.
Buskers may not erect any tents, tables, easy-up, or structure of any kind are allowed.
Buskers are allowed to collect tips. Performers cannot ask for money or require payment but may place a donation basket in one location and it cannot be passed around.
All performances must be considered family friendly. Obscenity or indecency will not be tolerated.
Buskers are not allowed to hawk at shoppers (example: demand shoppers to listen to you by yelling at them)
Knives, swords, torches, flames, axes, saws or other objects that can cause bodily injury to any person are prohibited.
SFMA currently does not have a license to allow performances of copyrighted music. Musicians may only perform original music or music in the public domain (any song or musical work published in 1922 or earlier). All musicians are responsible for paying any fee associated with their music.
Permit Fees are nonrefundable and do not guarantee any busker the opportunity to perform.
Busking Permits are valid for the current year only, are non-transferable, and must be renewed each calendar year.
Busking is allowed during the hours of 9 am-1:50 pm only. All buskers must leave the market promptly at 1:50 pm
You are not allowed to park any vehicles, bikes, chariots, carriages, etc. in the market.
No sales of merch or products are permitted.
