{"id":149,"date":"2019-02-28T09:59:43","date_gmt":"2019-02-28T14:59:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/?p=149"},"modified":"2026-04-08T16:23:43","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T20:23:43","slug":"stream-licensing-information","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/","title":{"rendered":"Comprehensive Guide to Internet Radio Stream Licensing: Essential Information for Online Broadcasters"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69e755e9796f9\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69e755e9796f9\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Licensing_and_Requirements_for_an_Internet_Radio_Station\" >Licensing and Requirements for an Internet Radio Station<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Radio_Stream_Licensing_Information\" >Radio Stream Licensing Information<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Why_Do_I_Need_a_License_to_Stream_Radio\" >Why Do I Need a License to Stream Radio?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Understanding_Performing_Rights_Organizations_PROs\" >Understanding Performing Rights Organizations (PROs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#The_Role_of_PROs_in_Stream_Licensing\" >The Role of PROs in Stream Licensing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#How_to_Get_an_Internet_Radio_Stream_License\" >How to Get an Internet Radio Stream License<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Additional_Considerations_for_Stream_Licensing\" >Additional Considerations for Stream Licensing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#FAQ\" >FAQ<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Do_I_need_a_license_to_run_an_internet_radio_station\" >Do I need a license to run an internet radio station?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Is_stream_licensing_different_from_podcast_licensing\" >Is stream licensing different from podcast licensing?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Does_CastHost_provide_the_reports_PROs_need\" >Does CastHost provide the reports PROs need?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/stream-licensing-information\/#Can_religious_or_indie_stations_skip_licensing\" >Can religious or indie stations skip licensing?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Need a license to stream internet radio? Yes, if you broadcast copyrighted music to the public. If your station plays only original, royalty-free, or public-domain content, your requirements are different. If you\u2019re still planning your station, see our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/start-an-internet-radio-station\/\">starting an internet radio station<\/a> for setup tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide walks you through all <strong>licensing and requirements for an internet radio station<\/strong> so you stay compliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Licensing_and_Requirements_for_an_Internet_Radio_Station\"><\/span>Licensing and Requirements for an Internet Radio Station<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Blanket PRO licence:<\/strong> ASCAP\u202f\/\u202fBMI\u202f\/\u202fSESAC (or SOCAN\u202f+\u202fRe:Sound in Canada).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sound recording reporting:<\/strong> Daily CSV logs from CastHost uploaded monthly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Territory check:<\/strong> Ensure licence covers every country you stream to.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Radio_Stream_Licensing_Information\"><\/span>Radio Stream Licensing Information<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Internet radio licensing<\/strong> rules are simple &#8211; if you are streaming and the stream is public or broadcasting to the public and you are playing copyrighted material, you do need to license your stream. Alternatively, you would need to get permission from every record label to play their music, which involves getting public performance rights. Honestly, it&#8217;s easier to just get a stream license.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luckily, we live in an internet age where getting a license for your stream is easy and affordable. Providers like <a href=\"https:\/\/pronetlicensing.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ProNet Licensing<\/a> offer simple and cost-effective ways to ensure your stream is legal. This information is provided for your convenience as we do not have any affiliation with this stream licensing provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Do_I_Need_a_License_to_Stream_Radio\"><\/span>Why Do I Need a License to Stream Radio?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It is crucial that whoever owns the material\/music you are streaming gets paid what they are owed. When you purchase a stream license, you ensure that you are not stealing their work and they receive proper credit. This applies to various scenarios:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Public Performances<\/strong>: Whether in a marching band, dance class, or street performance, if you are playing copyrighted music, someone has to pay for it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Digital Streaming<\/strong>: Playing music over the internet to a public audience without a license is a breach of copyright laws. A stream license covers these public performance rights, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With licensing covered, explore ways to grow revenue in our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/monetize-your-internet-radio-station\/\">monetizing your internet radio station<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_Performing_Rights_Organizations_PROs\"><\/span>Understanding Performing Rights Organizations (PROs)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) are entities that manage the rights of songwriters, composers, and publishers by collecting royalties on their behalf. Here&#8217;s an overview of some major PROs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers)<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Services<\/strong>: Licenses public performances, collects royalties, and distributes them to members.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Members<\/strong>: Songwriters, composers, music publishers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Services<\/strong>: Similar to ASCAP, focusing on licensing and royalty collection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Members<\/strong>: Open to songwriters, composers, and publishers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers)<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Services<\/strong>: Offers licensing and royalty collection, known for more personalized service.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Members<\/strong>: Invitation-only, includes songwriters and publishers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SoundExchange<\/strong>:\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Services<\/strong>: Collects and distributes digital performance royalties for sound recordings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Members<\/strong>: Recording artists and record labels.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-6160570014830830\"\n     crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script>\n<ins class=\"adsbygoogle\"\n     style=\"display:block; text-align:center;\"\n     data-ad-layout=\"in-article\"\n     data-ad-format=\"fluid\"\n     data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-6160570014830830\"\n     data-ad-slot=\"3041341984\"><\/ins>\n<script>\n     (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Role_of_PROs_in_Stream_Licensing\"><\/span>The Role of PROs in Stream Licensing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Royalty Collection<\/strong>: PROs ensure that creators are compensated when their music is played publicly, including online streams.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Licensing<\/strong>: They provide licenses to broadcasters, allowing them to legally use copyrighted music.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Support and Resources<\/strong>: PROs offer educational resources and support to their members, helping them navigate the complexities of music rights and royalties.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By working with a PRO, you can ensure that your streaming activities are legal and that artists receive the royalties they deserve. This not only protects your content but also supports the broader music community. Once licensing is sorted, learn <a href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/building-an-audience-for-your-internet-radio-station\/\">how to build an audience for your internet radio station<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to <strong>internet radio station licensing<\/strong>, you have two practical routes to stay legal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Get_an_Internet_Radio_Stream_License\"><\/span>How to Get an Internet Radio Stream License<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are straightforward ways to get licensed without dealing directly with big names like ASCAP or BMI. Here&#8217;s a simple process to follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Visit a Licensing Provider<\/strong>: Head over to <a href=\"https:\/\/pronetlicensing.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ProNet Licensing<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Get Informed<\/strong>: Understand their service requirements and how to use their platform.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check Hosting Reports<\/strong>: Ensure your hosting provider, like CastHost, gives you proper statistics reports, which are essential for licensing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sign Up<\/strong>: Register with the licensing provider and become a legal station with no worries.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/pronetlicensing-logo-small.png\" alt=\"stream licensing\nlicensing and requirements for an internet radio station\ninternet radio station licensing\ninternet radio licensing\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 295px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 295\/73;aspect-ratio:1;width:185px;height:auto\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_Considerations_for_Stream_Licensing\"><\/span>Additional Considerations for Stream Licensing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Educational Resources<\/strong>: Utilize educational resources and support offered by licensing providers to stay informed about compliance and best practices in stream licensing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>International Streaming<\/strong>: If your stream reaches audiences in different countries, be aware that licensing requirements can vary. Make sure your license covers international listeners. For where online radio is headed on the road, see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/in-car-entertainment-with-online-radio\/\">the future of in\u2011car entertainment<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Revenue Streams<\/strong>: Consider how licensing affects your revenue streams, especially if you are monetizing your content through ads, subscriptions, or donations. Proper licensing ensures you avoid legal issues that could disrupt your income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By following these steps and securing the necessary licenses, you can confidently broadcast your content, knowing you are in full compliance with copyright laws. Need hosting after licensing is sorted? See our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/stream_packages.php\">stream packages<\/a> and start a free trial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ\"><\/span>FAQ<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1753552142409\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_I_need_a_license_to_run_an_internet_radio_station\"><\/span>Do I need a license to run an internet radio station?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. If you stream copyrighted music publicly, you need licensing. If you only play original, royalty-free, or public-domain tracks, the rules are different.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1753552176464\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_stream_licensing_different_from_podcast_licensing\"><\/span>Is stream licensing different from podcast licensing?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. Podcasts and live streams use different rights. Live streams need public-performance licensing; podcasts usually need different mechanical\/download rights.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1753552219660\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_CastHost_provide_the_reports_PROs_need\"><\/span>Does CastHost provide the reports PROs need?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1753552254215\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_religious_or_indie_stations_skip_licensing\"><\/span>Can religious or indie stations skip licensing?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Only if every track is original, royalty\u2011free, or public domain.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Need a license to stream internet radio? Yes, if you broadcast copyrighted music to the public. If your station plays only original, royalty-free, or public-domain content, your requirements are different. If you\u2019re still planning your station, see our guide on starting an internet radio station for setup tips. This guide walks you through all licensing [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[23],"class_list":["post-149","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-tips","tag-stream-licensing"],"post_mailing_queue_ids":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/149","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=149"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/149\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3192,"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/149\/revisions\/3192"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=149"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=149"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.casthost.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=149"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}