SIAE Music Licensing: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how hotels in Italy can legally play background music in public spaces through SIAE licensing.
This scheme provides the legal permission needed to play copyrighted music within your hospitality business in Italy.
Who it's for
This licensing is intended for hospitality businesses, specifically hotels, that play background music to enhance the atmosphere for guests. If your hotel plays music in public areas like the lobby, in the bar area, or even within individual guest rooms, you fall under the scope of this requirement. It is designed to ensure that the creators of the music are compensated when their work is used in a commercial setting.
What you get
Once you have obtained this license, you receive the legal right to broadcast copyrighted music within your establishment. This covers the "Diritti d'autore" (copyright) aspect of music usage, allowing you to create a musical environment for your guests without the risk of legal non-compliance regarding the intellectual property of the artists.
What it costs you
The cost of this scheme is not a flat rate; instead, it is an annual subscription fee. The specific amount you are required to pay is calculated based on two main factors: the square footage of your hotel and the star rating of your establishment. Because the fee scales with the size and luxury level of your property, you should have your building measurements and official star classification ready when calculating your costs.
The catch to know
Many business owners assume that one music license covers all audio broadcasting, but this is not the case. A common mistake is failing to realize that even if you have secured this SIAE license, playing a radio in your lobby requires a separate license from SCF. You must ensure you have addressed both requirements to be fully compliant.
How to apply
- Measure the total square footage of your hotel premises.
- Confirm your hotel's official star rating for the current year.
- Visit the official SIAE portal to start your application and calculate your specific annual fee.
- Complete the necessary documentation to secure your "Licenza musica" (music license).