When is a public event free of charge from a GEMA perspective? Do I need to notify GEMA if my event is free of charge?

Public events featuring music must be registered with GEMA and are subject to royalty payments — even if there is no admission charge. An exception applies to events organised by youth welfare services, social welfare services, care for the elderly and charitable organisations, as well as prisoner support services, provided that participation is restricted to a specific group of people and no third party is pursuing a commercial purpose.

Please register the events with us nonetheless and submit the relevant supporting documents. The registration requirement also applies to

• events without GEMA repertoire
• folklore and traditional music
• blanket or quota contracts (generally)

Find out more on our page on free events organised by GEMA.