Small businesses invited to learn about Limited Entertainment Permit on Jan. 29

An entertainment permit with reduced fees and requirements is now available for small businesses seeking a more affordable, streamlined way to host live entertainment.

To help businesses understand the permit and application process, the City of Sacramento will host Limited Entertainment Permit (LEP) outreach and training on Jan. 29, from 3-4 p.m. at 300 Richards Blvd., Room 221. Free parking is available on site.

The LEP is an option for small businesses where entertainment is a secondary activity. Available to venues with an occupancy of 299 people or fewer, the permit costs $750 for two years and offers lower fees and fewer requirements than the City’s general entertainment permit.

“This permit is about removing barriers for small businesses that want to offer live entertainment while maintaining clear and predictable standards,” said Program Manager Melissa Romero. “The Limited Entertainment Permit provides a more accessible option for businesses to activate their spaces and support local performers.”

The LEP is intended for venues such as restaurants, bars, cafes, breweries and wineries, with limited entertainment hours and requirements scaled to reflect the size and use of these businesses.

Examples of entertainment that may require a LEP include DJs, open mic nights, comedy performances, amplified live music and ticketed events. Other activities, such as background recorded music, trivia nights and unamplified live music without ticketing, generally do not require a permit.

The training is part of the City’s ongoing effort to support organizers and businesses in planning and hosting entertainment in a variety of settings throughout Sacramento.

More information about the Limited Entertainment Permit is available on the City’s website.