The Nizhny Novgorod mayor's office explained the introduction of fines for street musicians.

      19 November 2025 16:08 Culture and Leisure

      The Nizhny Novgorod mayor's office responded to criticism over the introduction of fines for street musicians starting in 2026.

      The administration stressed that a city with its rich history and cultural heritage cannot be imagined without the creative atmosphere shaped, among other things, by street performers. "They are an important part of the city's culture, creating a distinct character and atmosphere," and city authorities are ready to consider initiatives aimed at developing the street music scene.

      At the same time, they reminded that penalties for violating the rules were included from the outset. In the regulation approved by an administrative decree, "On approving the procedure for coordinating street performances in the territory of the city of Nizhny Novgorod," paragraph 5.5 states that the supervising officer, a representative of the body that approves applications to hold performances, as well as employees of district administrations, have the right to draw up reports of administrative offenses against those who violate the requirements of the document.

      The mayor's office explained that the purpose of the regulation is to restore order and ensure a balance of interests among spectators, musicians and local residents, creating comfortable conditions for all participants in the urban space.

      The matter of introducing new fines for street musicians was not considered by City Duma deputies.

      Recall that well-known journalist Ksenia Sobchak previously spoke out about fines for street musicians. She suggested that the next step could be the approval of repertoires through "Gosuslugi", and then the possible emergence of a registry of approved compositions.

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