The city recognizes and accepts therapeutic massage, as distinguished from other forms of massage, as a scientific health care and/or maintenance technique or procedure for the human muscles, tendons, tissues, and the like. The city, however, equally recognizes the potential for illicit massage operations or establishments in the wake of legitimate, professional therapeutic massage establishments. Accordingly, in order to prevent or protect against the existence of illicit massage establishments or operations in the city and to protect the public's health, safety, and welfare, including the protection of the city's legitimate massage therapists' profession and reputation, the city deems it necessary to regulate therapeutic massage establishments and massage therapists through the licensing process.
(Ord. 912, passed 3-24-11)