Short answer: Performers register as street artists with the Department of Cultural Affairs (registration replaced exams in 2021) and then apply for designated venues. Register before you perform in public space.
Do you need a permit to busk in Taipei?
| Permit needed? | Yes |
| Cost | A small fee for a two-year registration (about 200 TWD). |
| Regulated by | Taipei City Department of Cultural Affairs |
| Official page | tpbusker.gov.taipei |
The rules in Taipei
- Amplifiers. Venue rules apply; noise must not break the Noise Control Act. Taipei MRT stations such as Xinbeitou do not allow amplification or electronic instruments.
- Designated venues are booked through the Taipei busker platform
- Xinyi and Ximen pedestrian zones have set areas and volume checks
- Taipei MRT opens some stations and the Eastern Underground Mall to registered performers
Stations and public transport
Taipei Metro opens set station spaces to registered performers by time slot; some stations ban amplification.
Before you play
Read the general advice in busking etiquette and how to choose a busking pitch, and see how Taipei 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 Taipei City Department of Cultural Affairs before you play. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Make a busking sign for Taipei
Print a sign with your own QR code so people can tip by card. Free, no sign-up.
Make my sign →Rules changed in Taipei?
Tell us what changed. We check every report against the official source before updating this page.
Busking near Taipei
- Hong Kong · Only in some areas or for amplifiers
- Seoul · Only in some areas or for amplifiers
- Kyoto · Only in some areas or for amplifiers
- Tokyo · Busking is banned or heavily limited in the centre
- Bangkok · Only in some areas or for amplifiers
- Kuala Lumpur · Yes
Common questions
Do you need a permit to busk in Taipei?
Performers register as street artists with the Department of Cultural Affairs (registration replaced exams in 2021) and then apply for designated venues. Register before you perform in public space.
How much does it cost to busk in Taipei?
A small fee for a two-year registration (about 200 TWD).
Can you use an amplifier when busking in Taipei?
Venue rules apply; noise must not break the Noise Control Act. Taipei MRT stations such as Xinbeitou do not allow amplification or electronic instruments.
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