Winston-Salem is moving forward with rules governing street musicians, also known as buskers. A city committee endorsed a proposal that bans electric amplification and sets hours in which people can perform.
Under the proposed rules, street musicians would have to pay an annual performance fee of $10. They would also be required to end their performances in most downtown locations by 11 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, and by midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
The city would also have designated entertainment districts, where performers could play until 2 a.m. any night.
The Winston-Salem Journal reports the proposed rules would impose misdemeanor penalties on violators, with fines starting at $50 for a first offense.
The discussions have generated tension between downtown residents and musicians.
One local street performer has already filed an online complaint about the city's proposal with the American Civil Liberties Union.
The City Council will take up the regulations at its next meeting Monday night.
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