Who this licence is for
Community radio stations with Ofcom-issued Community Radio Licences, which are broadcasting on AM/FM
Please note, this licence does not apply to community radio stations that are internet-only or DAB-only.
How to apply
Please see our online application pack
How does the Community Radio Licence work?
This licence issued by PRS allows OFCOM-licensed community radio stations to broadcast PRS controlled repertoire. The licence issued by MCPS allows OFCOM-licensed community stations the right to record MCPS administered repertoire into:
• Non-programme material
• Programmes produced by the radio station for broadcast on its own station
• Server or other hard-disk storage for subsequent direct-to-air broadcast
• The broadcast of production music sound recordings
However, a number of restrictions apply, including music used in advertising or station idents. Please consult the full terms and conditions for more information on restrictions and exclusions.
PRS licence fee
The PRS licence fee is based on a percentage of Net Broadcasting Revenue (NBR), subject to a minimum royalty fee.
The royalty fees for the licence year 1 October 2011 – 30 September 2012 are:
|
Less than £22,238 |
£667 non-returnable minimum fee |
|
Between £22,238 and £627,540 |
3% |
|
Between £627,541 and £1,255,080 |
4% |
|
or more £1,255,081 |
5.25% |
|
Subject to the annual minimum fee, where the total music use is less than 15% of total broadcast time, and regardless of the NBR level, the percentage rate will be |
1% |
MCPS licence fee
The MCPS licence fee for the period 1 October 2011 – 30 September 2012 will be a flat rate of £191.54 (plus VAT)
Where a station launches partway through the licence year, the licence fee will be pro-rated to the beginning of the calendar quarter. All rates are subject to VAT.
Licence term
The licence year will start on 1 October and end on the 30 September of any given year.
How to make payment
All licensees must pay by direct debit.
If your PRS royalty is based on a percentage of revenue, the direct debit collection will happen monthly.If your royalty is based on the annual minimum royalty, the direct debit collection will happen quarterly.
This also applies to the MCPS fee.
Radio stations must submit an NBR report at the end of the licence year, detailing the relevant revenue earned in the period. If the actual NBR submitted at the end of the licence year is greater than the estimated NBR given at the start of the year, the radio station could be eligible to pay a higher royalty fee and would need to settle the balance. Likewise, if the actual NBR is less than previously estimated, we will refund the difference. Please note this does not apply to those stations paying the minimum royalty fee.
If you have any further questions, please email radiolicensing@prsformusic.com