Do you play music? Get a licence
- Shivani Boer
- The basis
- 20 May 2026
- Edited 8 June 2026
- 1 min
- Starting
- Rules and laws
Do you use music in your business, for example in your shop, office, or online? In most cases, you will need a licence for music rights to ensure that creators are paid for their work. In this article, you can find out when such a licence is required and how to get one.
What do you need to arrange when starting a business?
Answer the questions on Business.gov.nl and see the steps that are important in your situation.
With a music , you buy permission to play music. And that is a sensible move, because you probably use music more often than you realise. For example, background music for customers, music while working, or in videos and online content. Whether you need a music licence depends on how and where you use the music.
When do you need a music licence?
You usually need a licence if customers, visitors, or more than 2 employees can hear the music. This applies, for example, if you use music in or at:
- Cafés, restaurants, canteens, and food trucks
- Hotels, B&Bs, and adult day-care centres
- Shops and shopping centres
- Beauty and tattoo salons
- Dentists, dental hygienists, and other healthcare practices
- Offices and educational institutions
- Public spaces and events
- Dance venues
- Music on your business website and social media
- Videos, advertisements, podcasts, apps, or games
Not sure if this applies to you? Read more about when you need a music on the website of BumaStemra and Sena, the organisation that represents music creators.
Can I just use music as a business owner?
Where can you arrange a music licence?
In the Netherlands, you can arrange music licences yourself . This joint platform by BumaStemra and Sena ensures that the money goes to the creators.
How much does a music licence cost?
The costs vary depending on the situation and you can calculate them . The cost depends, among other things, on:
- Where and how you use the music
- The type of music (background, live, or entertainment music)
- How many people hear the music
- The size of the venue
- How often you play music
If you take out a licence on time, you will receive a standard 33.33% discount. This discount remains valid as long as you pay your annual invoice on time. If you do not take out a licence, you run the risk of receiving a bill without the discount following an inspection.
Helping you assess your situation
Are you finding it difficult to decide whether you need a music licence? Our Advice Team are happy to help you assess your situation. They are available every workday between 8.30 and 17.00 on 088 585 22 22.
