Discuss an Ordinance Licensing Massage Establishments and Massage Therapists

The Ramsey Police Department has become aware of illegal activity taking place at massage establishments in Ramsey as well as other locations within Anoka County.  In order to control the criminal activity and protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Ramsey, the Police Department believes it is necessary to adopt an ordinance that will license massage establishments and the employed therapists. 

The State of Minnesota has no licensing regulations concerning the practice of massage therapy.  The regulation of the massage industry is left up to the local authority, meaning county or city. The County of Anoka does not have any licensing provisions and leaves any regulations up to the City where an establishment is located.  By establishing an ordinance, the City would be able to revoke or suspend a license where illegal activity has taken place.  The City currently has no authority to close a business where illegal activity has taken place or remove a therapist that has violated State Statute.   

Attached is a proposed ordinance for consideration.

15-30 minutes of discussion

None

Police Department and City Attorney

Staff is looking for work direction in the establishment of an ordinance licensing massage establishments and massage therapists in Ramsey.