Music is one of the most common causes of inspections, criminal complaints and sealing of premises in hospitality. The problem is rarely just the volume: usually it is the time, or the declaration or permit that is missing.
The music use declaration and, where needed, the extended music hours permit (άδεια παράτασης ωραρίου μουσικής) are preconditions for a food and beverage business (“shop of sanitary interest”, ΚΥΕ) to play music lawfully. We make sure the declaration is correct and that the extended hours permit is issued and renewed in time, so that sanctions are avoided.
Two different things
- Music use: declared in the business operation notification (γνωστοποίηση), in the dedicated music field.
- Extended music hours: music beyond the permitted hours needs a permit from the Municipality, where the Municipality’s rules allow it for the specific area. In many Municipalities it is valid for the calendar year and must be renewed in good time.
Low volume does not mean lawful music
Music beyond the permitted hours is a violation even at low volume. Sound levels and noise are a separate issue, with their own rules and their own consequences.
What we handle
- Checking what your Municipality’s regulations allow for the area and for the specific premises.
- Declaring music in the notification and preparing the file for the extended hours permit.
- Renewing the permit before it expires.
- Defence in criminal cases concerning music, hours and noise.
- Objections and appeals when the violation leads to an administrative sanction or sealing of the premises.
Frequently asked questions
A criminal complaint was filed against me over music. What should I do?
Keep any document you were given and send us a photo of it. If you are served with a penal order (ποινική διαταγή), objections must be filed within 15 days of service (article 412 of the Code of Criminal Procedure). If it was posted on your door or received by an employee, time is already running.
Does the Municipality’s permit also cover copyright?
No. The music permit or declaration to the authorities is different from the licences of the collective management organisations for copyright. A business that plays music must have both in order.
Can I keep playing music while my case is pending?
A pending case does not make the music lawful. Every new recorded violation counts and may lead to sealing of the premises. It is better to sort out the permit and the hours first.
See also: Sealing of premises · Criminal cases for businesses