“No Nightlife, Too Many Rules”: DJs Speak Out on Jersey’s Event Scene

DJs Say Jersey’s Nightlife Restrictions Are Holding Back the Island’s Music Scene

DJs and venue managers in Jersey say strict permit rules and noise complaints are stifling nightlife and making it increasingly difficult to host music events.

In June, police shut down an event at the Whitehorse pub in St Saviour an hour early following noise complaints. It is the latest example, musicians say, of restrictions that are limiting opportunities for live music across the island.

Calls for new venues have grown louder since the government’s Fort Regent redevelopment survey revealed a 2,500-capacity concert hall was the most popular proposed feature.

“Really frustrating”

Cisco, co-founder of The Loft — a collective known for its underground music nights — said noise restrictions at their Whitehorse event had been demoralising.

“It’s such a built-up area you can’t have the music as loud, which affects the atmosphere of the party,” he said. “There are always restrictions on decibel levels. We just want to enjoy ourselves and give people what they want.”

Pub manager Izzie agreed, calling the restrictions “extremely frustrating.”

Under current licensing laws, the Infrastructure and Environment Department said police can enforce noise breaches, revoke permits, or even remove alcohol licences if conditions are ignored. Each entertainment permit is reviewed by multiple agencies, which can impose limits on days, hours, and volume depending on the location and nearby residents.

A shrinking nightlife

Cisco said Jersey’s music calendar is shrinking, with fewer opportunities for DJs and promoters.

“Jersey has an older population, so it’s about creating awareness that these events aren’t happening every weekend, just a few times a year,” he said.“Older promoters tell me the ’90s were amazing for Jersey nightlife — why can’t we have that again?”

Two of St Helier’s key nightclubs, Rojos and Havana, closed in 2024, further reducing options for events.

“Recently it’s been a lot more challenging,” Cisco said. “Loads of venues have closed down.”

The government said it is working on changes to make hosting events easier, with amendments to both the Events Law and the Licensing Law due to be lodged in the States Assembly in the coming months.

Talent leaving the island

Frustration with limited opportunities has led many younger DJs to move abroad.

“At the beginning, it was exciting, there was loads of talent,” Cisco said. “But a lot of DJs have left for the UK to pursue their goals because there just isn’t the opportunity here.”

In July, Jersey’s Chief Minister warned that young people leaving the island to work and live elsewhere was one of its “greatest challenges.”

“Jersey needs to reinvent”

Laetitia Green — who DJs as Ana Crusis — left Jersey for London in 2022 to further her career. She previously taught courses to encourage more women into DJing on the island.

“In London I found a home where my sets are loved and appreciated,” she said. “The scene has suffered globally, but Jersey only has space for ‘one-size-fits-all’ events.”

She believes the island needs a fresh approach.

“It’s not about the biggest headliner,” she said. “It’s about people having a good time, a good sound system, and artists putting their heart into a set. Jersey needs to reinvent what a good night out means.”