A guide for Vermont chapters on permits, noise ordinances, insurance, and regulatory requirements for Make Music Day events.
Overview
Most Make Music Vermont events require minimal or no permits — especially acoustic performances on private property like porches and backyards. However, larger events, amplified music in public spaces, or events involving road closures may require coordination with local authorities.
This guide helps you understand what's required and how to navigate Vermont's regulatory landscape.
The Good News First
Most Make Music Events Don't Need Permits
- Acoustic music on private property (porches, yards)
- Performances inside businesses with owner permission
- Small gatherings that don't block sidewalks or roads
- Events on private land with landowner consent
When You Likely Need Permits
Public Parks & Town Greens
Most Vermont towns require permits or reservations for events on public land:
- Town greens/commons — Contact your Select Board or Town Clerk
- Public parks — Contact Parks & Recreation department
- State parks — Contact Vermont State Parks (generally not recommended due to complexity)
Typical requirements:
- Application submitted 2-4 weeks in advance
- Small fee ($0-100 depending on town)
- Proof of insurance (sometimes)
- Description of event, expected attendance, setup needs
Amplified Sound in Public Spaces
If you're using PA systems or amplifiers outdoors in public areas:
- Check local noise ordinances
- Some towns require a "special event" or "amplified sound" permit
- May need to specify volume limits and end times
Street Closures
If your event requires closing a street (rare for Make Music Day):
- Contact your town's Public Works or Highway department
- May require traffic control plan
- Often requires insurance certificate
- Apply 4-6 weeks in advance
Vermont Noise Ordinances
General Guidelines
Most Vermont towns follow similar patterns:
Time | Typical Restriction |
7 AM – 9 PM | Reasonable noise generally permitted |
9 PM – 10 PM | Reduced noise expected |
10 PM – 7 AM | Quiet hours — no amplified music |
Make Music Day recommendation: End all outdoor amplified events by 9 PM to be safe and neighborly.
Town-Specific Variations
Noise ordinances vary significantly by municipality. Always check with your specific town:
- Burlington — Has specific decibel limits and permit requirements for outdoor amplified events
- Montpelier — Requires permits for amplified sound in public spaces
- Smaller towns — Often have informal processes; a conversation with the Town Clerk is usually sufficient
How to Find Your Town's Ordinances
- Visit your town's website and search for "noise ordinance" or "special events"
- Call your Town Clerk's office
- Check with the Select Board
- Ask your local police department's non-emergency line
Insurance Considerations
When Insurance May Be Required
- Events on municipal property (parks, town greens)
- Events with expected attendance over 50-100 people
- Events involving temporary structures (stages, tents)
- Any event where the venue/property owner requires it
Types of Insurance
General Liability Insurance
- Covers injuries to attendees or property damage
- Typical requirement: $1 million per occurrence
- Can often be obtained as a one-day event policy
Options for Getting Coverage:
- Fiscal sponsor's policy — If you're operating under a nonprofit fiscal sponsor, their insurance may cover your events
- Municipal coverage — Some towns will add Make Music events to their municipal policy
- Event insurance providers — Companies like TULIP, EventHelper, or local insurance agents offer one-day event policies ($75-200)
- Venue's existing policy — Businesses hosting events may already have coverage
When You Probably Don't Need Insurance
- Private property events with homeowner's consent (their homeowner's insurance typically covers)
- Small acoustic performances (under 25 people)
- Events inside businesses covered by the business's policy
Working with Local Authorities
Best Practices
Build Relationships Early
- Introduce Make Music Day to your town officials in January/February
- Frame it as a community celebration, not a request for something
- Offer to provide information about the national/international movement
- Ask what they need from you to make it easy to approve
Who to Contact
For This | Contact |
Town green/common use | Select Board or Town Clerk |
Park permits | Parks & Recreation Department |
Noise concerns | Town Clerk or Police (non-emergency) |
Street closures | Public Works / Highway Department |
General questions | Town Clerk (great starting point) |
What to Tell Them
- Make Music Day is a free, worldwide celebration happening in 1,000+ cities
- Events are low-impact — mostly acoustic, on private property, no alcohol sales
- It's one day only — June 21st
- You're coordinating local volunteers who want to celebrate music in your community
- You want to work with the town, not around it
Alcohol Considerations
If Your Event Involves Alcohol
Make Music Day events should be free and open to the public, but some venues that serve alcohol may want to host performances.
Key points:
- The performance itself should be free to attend
- If alcohol is served, the venue must have proper Vermont liquor license
- Outdoor alcohol service requires specific permits
- Never serve alcohol at events you organize directly unless you have proper licensing
Vermont Liquor Laws Quick Reference
- First Class License: Beer and wine
- Third Class License: Full liquor
- Special Event Permits: Available for nonprofits for specific events
- Outside Consumption Permits: Required for outdoor areas
Recommendation: Let licensed venues handle alcohol. Focus your energy on the music!
Checklist by Event Type
Porch Concert (Private Property)
Business Location (Indoor)
Town Green / Public Park
Amplified Outdoor Event
Common Questions
Q: What if my town doesn't have a formal permit process?
Many smaller Vermont towns operate informally. A conversation with the Town Clerk or a Select Board member is often sufficient. Get something in writing (even an email) confirming approval.
Q: Do I need a permit for a parade or "porch crawl"?
If participants are walking on sidewalks and not blocking traffic, typically no. If you're closing streets or have large groups moving through town, check with local authorities.
Q: What about busking/street performance?
Vermont generally allows busking on public sidewalks, but some towns have specific ordinances. Burlington, for example, has busking guidelines. Check locally.
Q: Can we use a generator for power?
Usually yes on private property. On public land, check with the permitting authority. Consider noise from the generator itself.
Resources
- Vermont League of Cities and Towns: vlct.org — Resources on municipal regulations
- Vermont Secretary of State: Town contact information
- Your Town Clerk: Best first point of contact for local requirements
This guide provides general guidance. Always verify requirements with your specific municipality, as regulations vary across Vermont.