For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
MASSAGE PRACTITIONER. A person who for remuneration, either monetary or otherwise, applies manual or mechanical massage or similar treatment to the human trunk or limbs. A person who is licensed under the North Carolina Massage and Bodywork Therapy Practice Act is a massage practitioner within the meaning of this chapter. The following persons are not massage practitioners within the meaning of this chapter:
(1) A medical practitioner duly qualified and licensed to practice within the state;
(2) A chiropractor duly qualified and licensed to practice within the state;
(3) A physical therapist duly qualified and licensed to practice within the state; and
(4) A person who applies manual or mechanical massage or similar treatment to the human neck and head only.
REGULATED FACILITY. Any and all massage practices, health salons, physical culture studios, clubs, or similar establishments which employ or offer the services of a massage practitioner for remuneration, monetary or otherwise. The following facilities are not regulated facilities within the meaning of this chapter:
(1) A hospital regularly established and licensed under the laws of the state;
(2) A sanitarium regularly established and licensed under the laws of the state;
(3) A nursing home regularly established and licensed under the laws of the state;
(4) A medical clinic regularly established and licensed under the laws of the state;
(5) An office or clinic operated by a medical practitioner duly qualified and licensed to practice within the state;
(6) An office or clinic operated by a chiropractor duly qualified and licensed to practice within the state; and
(7) An office or clinic operated by a physical therapist duly qualified and licensed to practice within the state.
(1989 Code, § 9-1) (Ord. passed 7-24-1972; Ord. 01-05, passed 6-11-2001)