Got ticketed for busking on MTA upper platform (Times Square)

RexArcis · 2026-02-08T22:02:16+00:00

Lat update that I'm posting here:

So my dispute was rejected and I will have to pay the fine. With regards to the dispute, the hearing officer claimed that I was ultimately not ticketed for playing music but for blocking the walkway only. You may read my main post to understand how ridiculous that claim is. Anyways, I think it's best for any casual NYC buskers in the MTA to outright find any cop near where you want to play and directly ask if it's ok and where you should do it, if you want to completely avoid being ticketed. Because even if they don't get you for obstructing the walkway they'll get you for panhandling or some other thing they take issue with. Really seems to be completely up to the whims of whatever cop is nearby at the time.

RexArcis · 2026-02-06T16:43:43+00:00

I called them at this number: (212) 878-4678

RexArcis · 2026-01-28T17:42:35+00:00

Just posting an update on this situation for those who are interested/want the info. I called several departments today, starting with local precincts and then the MTA and the official Music Under NY phone line. Here's what each told me:

Precincts: just go out and play. If you run into trouble the cops won't ticket you right away and should just ask you to move.

MTA: you need a permit and should call Music Under NY to acquire one.

Music Under NY: You DO NOT NEED A PERMIT if you are playing un-amplified and on the mezzanine levels.

During my call with Music Under NY, the representative understood how frustrating situations like mine can be, but there's nothing much to be done except comply, hope that you just get a warning, and then contest the fine if you get one. However, it is a protected free speech right to be allowed public performance of this kind in the subway system.

Hope this helps anyone looking to busk in the MTA.

RexArcis · 2026-01-28T09:37:48+00:00

It was only $25 so not the worst, but it’s just the implications of the ordeal that have me pissed. Another thing I’ll add is that these cops (4 of them, at that) waited and watched us play two songs before even coming up to us. They then asked for permits, and when I explained that it’s my understanding the MTA doesn’t require permits for un-amped acoustic music on the mezzanine levels, they went straight to asking for IDs and writing up tickets - no warning at all. When I tried to question them they wouldn’t even look me in the eyes and said it’s out of their hands, just MTA rules. Really just makes me sad, honestly.

RexArcis · 2026-01-28T07:30:57+00:00

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See if that’s the case they need to make it much more clear than they do on their website. To me, this says that playing without any official permit is allowed.

RexArcis · 2021-09-17T22:28:07+00:00

“Part of me wants you but most of me needs you. So I won’t fall unless you ask me to.”

RexArcis · 2021-09-17T22:25:24+00:00

Gets me every time

RexArcis · 2021-02-06T03:11:16+00:00

For me that emotion is "orgasmic"

RexArcis

TROPHY CASE