SOCAN Sports Events Tariff (2024–2026)

Summary#

This notice from the Copyright Board sets the music-licensing fees that SOCAN will collect for live or recorded music played at sports events in 2024 to 2026. The basic rule is a fee of 0.1% of ticket sales per event, with a minimum of $8 and some reporting and payment rules for event organizers.

What it does#

• Covers the performance, during 2024 to 2026, of works in SOCAN’s repertoire at sports events (live performers or recorded music). Examples named in the notice include baseball, football, hockey, basketball, skating competitions, races and track meets.
• Charges a fee of 0.1% of gross ticket receipts per event (ticket sales before sales and amusement taxes).
• Values a complimentary ticket at half the lowest price paid for a sold ticket in the same ticket category for that event.
• Sets a minimum fee of $8 for any event, including events with free admission.
• Does not authorize music performances at opening or closing events that charge an extra admission fee (those are excluded).
• Requires users to file a quarterly report and payment within 30 days after the end of each quarter.
• Gives SOCAN the right to audit a user’s books and records on reasonable notice during normal business hours.
• Charges interest on late payments at a daily rate equal to 1% above the Bank Rate (as published by the Bank of Canada), with interest not compounding.
• States that fees are exclusive of any federal, provincial or other taxes.

Who's affected#

• Event promoters, sports teams, venue operators and other organizers who sell admission to sports events and play music.
• Smaller organizers too: even free events must pay at least $8.
• SOCAN members (songwriters, composers, music publishers) are the beneficiaries of the tariff.
• It’s not clear from the notice whether some specialized events or categories beyond the listed sports might be treated differently; organizers unsure of their status should check with SOCAN.

Why it matters#

• Organizers need to budget for an added cost tied to ticket sales (small percentage, but it applies to every event).
• Even events with no ticket revenue still have a minimum fee, which matters for community or promotional events.
• Quarterly reporting, possible audits and the interest rules add administrative work and potential penalties for late payment.
• The rules affect how complimentary tickets are counted, which can change reported ticket totals and fees.