SOCAN Tariff for Amusement Parks (2026–2028)

Summary#

SOCAN Tariff 12.B – Canada’s Wonderland and Similar Operations (2026-2028) sets how much parks and similar attractions must pay when they play music from SOCAN’s repertoire during the 2026–2028 period. It charges $7.27 per 1,000 people on days music is played (rounded to the nearest 1,000) plus 1.5% of the park’s calculated live music entertainment costs.

What it does#

• Applies to the performance of works in SOCAN’s repertoire at Canada’s Wonderland and similar amusement operations for 2026–2028.
• Charges two fees:
  • $7.27 per 1,000 persons in attendance on days music is performed (attendance rounded to the nearest 1,000).
  • 1.5% of “live music entertainment costs.”
• Defines “live music entertainment costs” as direct spending on live entertainment where music is performed, but excludes spending on stage props, lighting, set design, costumes, renovations, facility expansion, furniture and equipment.
• Sets a payment and reporting schedule:
  • By June 30 each year: submit an estimate of attendance and live-music costs and pay 50% of estimated royalties.
  • By October 1: pay the balance of estimated royalties.
  • Within the earlier of 30 days after the season ends or by January 31: file an audited final statement of actual attendance and live-music costs; SOCAN will then issue adjustments.
• Gives SOCAN the right to audit the user’s books on reasonable notice during business hours to verify reports.
• Excludes separately ticketed concerts (those with an extra admission charge beyond park entry).
• Late payments accrue interest daily at 1% above the Bank Rate (interest does not compound).
• All amounts are quoted before taxes.

Who's affected#

• Operators of amusement parks and similar attractions that play music from SOCAN’s repertoire, notably Canada’s Wonderland and comparable operations.
• Event promoters or departments within those parks that organize live music shows.
• It is not clear from the notice exactly which other types of venues the phrase “similar operations” covers; operators should check the tariff text or ask SOCAN or the Copyright Board for clarification.

Why it matters#

• Parks will need to budget for a per‑visitor fee plus a percentage of their live‑music spending. That affects the cost of putting on live entertainment and could influence decisions about how much live music to program.
• The payment schedule and audit right mean parks must keep clear records and meet reporting deadlines.
• Separately ticketed concerts are treated differently, so promoters who sell distinct concert tickets should expect a different licensing arrangement.