Street Performance

• 1). San Francisco encourages musicians to play freely in public areas; while allowing them to accept tips. There are 12 performance locations designated by San Francisco's Street Performer Program. Set up a spot individually or as a group at open spots along the Fisherman's Wharf between Powell Street to Hyde Street -- and from the south side of Jefferson Street to The Embarcadero -- and San Francisco Bay. Locations are given on a first-come, first-serve basis; so get there early. You don't have to schedule a performance or obtain a license, but you will have to move to another location after 1 1/2 hours without a license.
  
  
• 2). Obtain a license from the city to schedule 3-hour performance times and book your desired location. A license will allow you to sell merchandise related to your music; such as CDs, clothing, posters and other performance-related products. The available performance spots are located within the same area.
  
  
• 3). Make sure your jazz music can't be heard over 50 feet away. The Street Performer Program -- as well as courtesy towards other musicians -- demands a reasonable decibel level.