The pandemic has had a negative impact on many businesses, especially those in the hospitality industry. Live music has become extremely challenging to host in person in light of the COVID restrictions. Music venues and musicians across Madison have been looking for creative alternatives to offer shows that make people feel comfortable. The city has received multiple inquiries about what is possible for performers who use outdoor music amplification to comply with public health policy. To help musicians and music business owners, the City has created a guide to explain the different ways amplified and non-amplified live music can be performed outdoors.
The Outdoor Music Guide (OMG) is a new resource outlining the ways in which one can host an outdoor live music event, whether hosted by an individual, organization or company. The OMG document summarizes all options based on city ordinances with the understanding that each activity is unique and other rules may apply. The city hopes this tool will answer questions and facilitate the provision of music-related activities, while fostering a vibrant music scene in the community.
“Understanding the City of Madison ordinances and knowing who and when to contact city agencies is no easy task, especially for new event organizers. I know small organizations are struggling to navigate the system and a short document outlining what is legally possible is very helpful for our music community,” said Rob Dz, Greater Madison Music City team member and organizer of the MadLit Concert Series.
“It’s great to see such a clear guide released to the public. The Music and Entertainment Equality Task Force emphasized the importance of making it as easy as possible for community members to find rules and regulations to ensure equal access to the opportunities outlined in the OMG.” Says dr. Karen Reece, President of the Urban Community Arts Network and Greater Madison Music City Team Leader.
The creation of the OMG was a collaborative effort of city agencies, including the Planning Department, City Attorney’s Office, Zoning, City Clerk’s Office, Parks Department and Economic Development Department.
Explore the guide and learn more about music initiatives in Madison on our City Music website.
For questions about this guide, please contact the City of Madison Planning Division, Angela Puerta at madisonarts@cityofmadison.com
