Public Entertainment Licence [PEAPL001]
The Public Entertainment Licence is required by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) for any entertainment provided in public-accessible places. This includes various forms of entertainment, and the licence is valid for 1 year, with processing typically taking around 3 weeks.
- Validity
- 1 year
- Processing time
- Approximately 3 weeks
- Issuing authority
- SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE (SPF)
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Who needs the Public Entertainment Licence [PEAPL001]
This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:
- Required to operateDivision 90 — ARTS CREATION AND PERFORMING ARTS ACTIVITIES
Includes: 90001 Production and participation in live theatrical presentations, 90002 Operation of performing arts venues, 90003 Producing live musical entertainment, 90009 Creative, arts and entertainment activities n.e.c.
- Required to operateDivision 91 — LIBRARIES, ARCHIVES, MUSEUMS AND OTHER CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Includes: 91010 Libraries and archives activities, 91100 Libraries and archives activities, 91201 Museums, 91209 Operation of historical sites and buildings n.e.c.
What's involved in getting the Public Entertainment Licence [PEAPL001]
The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.
What this licence allows the business to do
The Public Entertainment Licence enables businesses to legally provide entertainment in venues accessible to the public. This includes activities such as concerts, performances, and exhibitions, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
What must be in place before the licence can be granted
Before the licence can be issued, certain conditions must be met. This includes having a comprehensive list of any crane or game machines intended for use, along with supporting documents that demonstrate compliance with the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) land use or HDB regulations. The documentation must be prepared in acceptable file formats and adhere to specified size limits.
How the agency reviews and decides
The Singapore Police Force conducts a thorough review of the application, which includes assessing the submitted documentation and ensuring that all requirements are met. The agency may also conduct site inspections to verify compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Common reasons applications stall
Applications for the Public Entertainment Licence can be delayed for several reasons. Common issues include incomplete documentation, such as missing lists of equipment or insufficient supporting documents. Additionally, discrepancies between the proposed entertainment activities and the approved land use can lead to complications. Ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete before submission can help mitigate these risks.
Required documents and prerequisites
Items the applicant typically needs ready before submitting:
- List of Crane/ Game Machines
- Documents showing list of crane/game machine
- File format: pdf,jpg,gif,doc,docx
- Maximum upload per application: 2 MB
- Others
- Additional Supporting Documents (eg. URA Land Use / HDB lodgement)
- File format: pdf,jpg,gif,doc,docx
- Maximum upload per application: 2 MB
Public Entertainment Licence [PEAPL001] FAQ
Do I need this licence to start operating?
Yes, a Public Entertainment Licence is necessary for any business intending to provide entertainment in a public space in Singapore. Operating without this licence can result in significant fines.
What can my business do once licensed?
Once licensed, your business can legally host various forms of entertainment, such as concerts, performances, and exhibitions, in venues accessible to the public.
What happens if I operate without it?
Operating without a Public Entertainment Licence can lead to legal repercussions, including fines of up to $20,000. It is crucial to obtain the licence to avoid such penalties.
What's the most common reason applications get rejected?
The most common reason for rejection is incomplete or inaccurate documentation. Ensuring that all required documents are submitted and that they meet the agency's specifications can help avoid this issue.
Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?
Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for a Public Entertainment Licence in Singapore, provided they meet all the necessary requirements and conditions set by the Singapore Police Force.
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