Introduce Ordinance Licensing Massage Establishments and Massage Therapists

Council began discussing a proposed city ordinance to license massage establishments and massage therapists at a July 8, 2014 city council work session.  As part of the review process, the City surveyed massage therapists practicing within the Ramsey area. The city attorney revised the proposed ordinance language to reflect city council work session discussions, survey results, and research of similar municipal ordinances. 

Attached is the revised proposed ordinance for introduction.

Original Case:
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.

None required.

Staff recommends the introduction and finally adoption of the revised Ordinance Licensing Massage Establishments and Massage Therapists as presented.

 Motion to introduce Ordinance #15-XXX amending Chapter 26 of the Ramsey City Code - Licenses, Permits and Miscellaneous Business Regulations by adding Article XVIII, Massage Businesses and Services.