Q. We own the Video/DVD, do we still need a licence to view or show it in public?
A. Yes. The location requires a licence regardless of who owns the DVD. While you may own the actual DVD, you are only granted the right to view it in your home, not to perform it in public.

Q. We do not charge admission. Do we still need a licence?
A. Yes. Regardless of whether an admission fee is charged, a licence is required. However, the Umbrella Licence® covers only those situations where admission is not charged.

Q. We are a charity. Do we still need a licence?
A. Yes. Under the law, it does not matter if you are a charity, government agency or limited company. You are required to have a public performance licence to show DVDs.

Q. How much does the Umbrella Licence cost?
A. In most cases, the MPLC has set license fees based on the type and size of facility. However, if the facility and/or use falls outside of these categories we will determine a reasonably priced licence fee within your organisation’s means based on the nature and size of the audience and anticipated frequency of showings.

Q. We show DVDs on our closed-circuit system. Do we need a licence?
A. Yes. The Copyright Act provides that closed-circuit transmissions are automatically deemed public performances.

Q. We are not open to the general public. Do we still need a licence?
A. Yes. Any location outside of the home is considered public for copyright purposes and requires a licence.

Q. We rent out our facility to other groups. Can we be liable for copyright infringement?
A. Yes. The facility owner can be held liable under the secondary infringement (Chapter 2 Section 25)

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the MPLC at +44 (0)1323 649 647 or send us an email to ukinfo@mplc.com.