Organizations that stage events in Columbus city parks are now expected to handle their own music licensing, according to a city bulletin.
The notice says ASCAP approached the department to clarify that the existing music license applies only to events on City-operated property that are produced by the City and its constituent bodies, departments, agencies or leagues. According to the bulletin, the department was advised that widening that coverage to any other group would obligate it to report those groups' performances to ASCAP.
The department said it does not have the information or the staffing to report on every event held in City parks. On that basis, the notice states that each organization is now responsible for complying with performing rights agency requirements.
The bulletin does not give an effective date, identify the issuing office beyond "our department," or describe any consequence for groups that do not arrange coverage. It also does not address whether the same expectation extends to performing rights organizations other than ASCAP.
Groups planning park events with recorded or live music would need to confirm licensing arrangements directly with the relevant agency, based on the responsibility shift described in the notice.