News Further Regulation Requiring Decibel Limits For Any Music Played In Relevant Premises

New Regulations On Music and Dancing in Premises

Date: 29 September 2020
Author/Solicitor: Clare Eames

“The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Obligations of Undertakings) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 came into force on 28th September 2020.

The Regulations apply to England only. The Regulations seek to amend the previous statutory instruments. There are a number of modifications. They key ones are:

In Regulation 2 there is a new Section 1(a) which requires a person responsible for carrying on a business of a public house, café, restaurant or bar (including a bar in a hotel or members’ club) must, during the emergency period, take all reasonable measures to stop-

(a) Singing on the premises by customers in groups of more than 6; or
(b) Dancing on the premises by customers. There are certain exemptions in relation to dancing at wedding ceremonies and civil partnership ceremonies and receptions.

Additionally, new Regulation 2(1)(c) requires that no music is played on premises which exceeds 85db(a) when measured at the source of the music. This new decibel limit does not apply to the performance of live music.

Fines continue to be applicable and this is only an initial summary of the main provisions as they impact hospitality businesses."