Proposed ordinance will limit street performers in Merchants Square

Proposed ordinance will limit street performers in Merchants Square
By Sian Wilkerson
Virginia Gazette
Aug 09, 2022 at 2:00 pm

WILLIAMSBURG — Street performers in Merchants Square may soon find themselves restricted on when, where and how loudly they may perform.

At Monday’s work session, Williamsburg City Council heard a proposal for an update to the city code to establish regulations on street performances in and around the Historic Area.

“We saw an increase in downtown performance art, and at times it has been bothersome to both businesses and patrons because it can be competitive and loud,” said City Manager Andrew Trivette during the presentation. “We were asked by some local residents as well as Merchants Square Association to look at what we can do to regulate this better.”

During an investigation into the best way forward for street performances in the area, staff determined that limiting performance areas to three specific locations in Merchants Square will help maintain reasonable sound levels for all visitors in the space.

The proposed ordinance sets an appropriate volume level, designates areas where street performances may or may not occur and sets daily hours. The performance areas, which would be marked by medallions, are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, with performances allowed from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

In the Historic Area, performers are prohibited from blocking the street or pathways used by pedestrians and cars. Performers must also stay more than 50 feet away from any church or residence.

City council will vote on the proposal at Thursday’s meeting.