JASRAC Music License: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn if your business needs a JASRAC music license and how much it costs to play music legally in your establishment.
This license provides the legal right to play copyrighted music within a business setting.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically intended for business owners who use music to enhance their customer experience. This includes establishments such as cafes playing background music for their patrons. If your business relies on playing music to set the atmosphere, you may fall under the category of someone who needs this license.
What you get
By obtaining this license, you receive the official legal permission to play music that is protected by copyright laws. This ensures that the creators and rights holders of the songs being played are properly compensated, allowing you to play music in your place of business without legal concerns regarding copyright infringement.
What it costs you
Using this service is not free; it requires the payment of an annual fee. The specific cost is not a flat rate for everyone; instead, the amount is calculated based on the floor space of your establishment. For many small businesses, this typically amounts to a yearly fee in the range of approximately ¥6,000 to ¥10,000.
The catch to know
A common mistake for business owners is assuming that using certain devices or apps fulfills their legal obligations. Please be aware that playing music through the radio or using a personal streaming service like Spotify does not bypass the requirement for this license. Using these services for public playback without the proper license is a copyright violation.
How to apply
- Measure the total floor space of your business area to determine your specific fee category.
- Visit the official JASRAC website to review their specific licensing categories and requirements.
- Follow the application steps provided on their digital portal to ensure your business remains compliant with local regulations.