Busking in Sao Paulo: permit, rules and card tips

A busker playing guitar on a city street with a QR code tip sign beside his case

Short answer: Municipal Law 15,776 of 2013 lets street artists perform in streets, squares and parks without prior authorisation. Prior notice is only needed for a stage or structure.

Do you need a permit to busk in Sao Paulo?

Permit needed?No
CostNo permit fee
Regulated bySubprefeituras (local city offices)
Official pagesaopaulo.sp.leg.br

The rules in Sao Paulo

  • Amplifiers. Noise is limited under city law 13,885/2004.
  • Performance must be temporary, free to watch (hat donations allowed) and not block pedestrians
  • Must end by 10 pm
  • Avenida Paulista on open-streets Sundays has extra rules from the Se subprefecture
  • A short-lived 2014 registration rule was revoked

Before you play

Read the general advice in busking etiquette and how to choose a busking pitch, and see how Sao Paulo compares with other cities on the world busking map.

Sources

Checked in October 2026. Rules and fees change, and enforcement varies from street to street, so confirm with Subprefeituras (local city offices) before you play. This page is general information, not legal advice.

Common questions

Do you need a permit to busk in Sao Paulo?

Municipal Law 15,776 of 2013 lets street artists perform in streets, squares and parks without prior authorisation. Prior notice is only needed for a stage or structure.

Can you use an amplifier when busking in Sao Paulo?

Noise is limited under city law 13,885/2004.

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