USING MUSIC

What is a Music License?

A music license issued by COSBOTS is a legal authorization that permits a person or organization to publicly use copyright-protected music under agreed terms and conditions. The license is issued by COSBOTS on behalf of the copyright owners whose rights it administers. The copyright owner is referred to as the Licensor, while the person or organization granted permission to use the music is known as the Licensee. As a Collective Management Organization (CMO), COSBOTS issues licenses, collects license fees, and administers the rights entrusted to it by copyright owners.

Benefits of a cosbots license?

Ensures full compliance with Botswana’s copyright laws
Protects against fines, penalties, and legal action
Grants legal permission to use music and other protected works
Supports fair royalty payments to creators and rights holders
Contributes to the growth of Botswana’s creative industry

What will happen if i dont apply for a license?

Criminal sanctions for non-compliance.
Businesses /Individuals who contravene provisions on Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act;

Shall be guilty of an offence and upon conviction are liable to a fine not exceeding P20,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years or to both.
On a second conviction, any person shall be fined 30,000 – 5million or imprisonment of a term not exceeding 10 years or both.

When does my music license expire?

The license is a contract that runs annually, or per event and due to the many ways in which musical or non-musical works are performed or displayed, the fees paid for a license or the type of license can vary.

Who should apply for a music license?

Any venue or business that plays background, recorded, broadcast or live music in public must get a music usage license from COSBOTS. This includes businesses and people such as the following:
• Radio
• Pubs
• Live music venues
• Shopping malls
• Cinemas
• Car washes
• Trains
• Non-profit organisations
• Concerts Exhibitions
• Any other establishment that plays music in public
• Television broadcasters
• Nightclubs
• Restaurants
• Retail stores
• Hairdressers
• Mobile Service providers
• DJ’s
• Minibus taxis
• Churches
• Schools
• Community-based organisations
• Music festivals
• Any public show that makes use of music

How much do i pay for using music?

The amount payable for a music licence depends on the type of business or activity, the manner in which music is used, and other applicable licensing criteria. COSBOTS applies approved tariffs that are designed to ensure fairness for both music users and copyright owners.

To determine the applicable license fee for your business or event, please contact COSBOTS for a quotation or tariff guidance. Our team will assess your intended use of music and advise you on the appropriate license and the corresponding fee.
Please visit our tariffs page for more information, See more..