POLICY

PAPA provides a real property tax rebate of up to $15,000 per year for performing arts venues that meet the following requirements:

· Less than 300 seat capacity;

· Hosts live performances for a minimum of 48 hours a month for each month of a taxable year;

· Pay the artists performing those live performances according to their experience, talent, and best community practices for their form of entertainment;

· Are liable under a venue lease for the payment of real property taxes; and/or

· Paid real property taxes to the District of Columbia for FY 2026 (10.1.2025 to 9.30.26).

Thank you for your interest in the PAPA Program. Please note that the program is now closed. If you have any questions, please email papa.rebate@dc.gov

CLOSED



“Simply put, music matters in the District of Columbia. The musicians, the venue owners, the educators, the technicians, all areas of the music economy are important to who we are as a city. “ - Muriel Bowser, Mayor, District of Columbia

The Anthem, Wharf Street Southwest, Washington, DC
Photo Credit: Zachary Smith