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SOCAN Fees - Check to see if they apply to your Church.

Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers (SOCAN). Most recorded or live music you hear in public places is subject to a fee charged to the site owner/ administrator. The United Church strongly supports efforts to ensure creative artists receive all due compensation and recognition. But...It is important to note that music played in the furtherance of religion is EXEMPT from SOCAN fees and therefore most church activities involving music are exempt from SOCAN fees.

However if you have a fundraising concert, or if you rent your hall for a wedding reception where music is played, a SOCAN fee is likely payable. Note: Music played at the wedding ceremony is of course an
exempt church activity. Music played for an exercise class is probably subject to fee, music played for a CHURCH spiritual development program (yoga/meditation etc) is not. If a renter runs yoga classes with music, a fee is payable. Pretty confusing. Generally music played by renters (except schools) is subject to fee. We recommend including mention of SOCAN fees in rental agreements and having tenants assume responsibility for any SOCAN fees.

Understandably, SOCAN strives to ensure it receives all fees properly due and tries to police this across a myriad of sites. Recently however they have issued generic mailings to churches which exclude all mention of the religious exemption and include cumbersome, complex forms. We recommend ignoring this paperwork task and focusing instead on understanding whether you have any activity at your church that might properly be subject to SOCAN fees. We will be communicating more specific information and advice in partnership with SOCAN going forward. Complete Information on copyright

For further information on either of the following pieces of information, please contact Erik Mathieson at emathies@united-church.ca; 1-800-268-3781, ext. 4022.