On November 9, 2026, the City of Columbus announced that its music license does not cover all events held in parks. According to the City, the license only applies to events produced by the City and its departments on City-operated property. Each organization will now be responsible for complying with performing rights agency requirements, as the City lacks the capacity to report on every event in City parks.
Press Release: City of Columbus
Published November 9, 2026. Reproduced in full from the City of Columbus.
Music Licensing for Special Events
Hello Everyone,
ASCAP recently connected with our department to inform us that our music license does not cover all events held in parks, only events on City operated property when they are produced by the City and its constituent bodies, departments, agencies, or leagues.
Based on the recent conversation, we were advised that if we extended coverage to any other group we would be responsible for reporting to ASCAP for those groups’ performances. Unfortunately, we do not have access to the required information or staff capacity to report on every event held with in City parks. With this change in information, each organization will now be responsible for complying with performing rights agency requirements.
