Many people copy music from CDs onto tapes so that they can play it in their car or portable cassette player. Is this a violation of the copyright?

No. This situation is covered by the exemption dealing with private copying of sound recordings. However, there are strict limitations on this exemption. It is only for private use. It will not protect someone who

• sells, rents, or offers the recording for sale or rent;
• distributes the recording whether or not for the purpose of trade;
• communicates the recording to the public by telecommunication;
• publically performs the recording.

To compensate an artist or copyright holder, a levy is added to all blank audio tapes sold in Canada. That levy is then paid to the appropriate copyright collective.

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WARNING: The contents of these FAQs are intended as general legal information only.
If you have a personal problem, please consult a lawyer.