753.01 PURPOSE AND DEFINITIONS.

   As used In this chapter:

   (a)    Purpose. Sections 753.01 through 753.99 shall be known as the Massage Services Ordinance. The purpose and intent of the Massage Services Ordinance is to regulate massage services in order to reduce prostitution, human trafficking, and other megal and harmful activities.

   (b)    Definitions. For purposes of Section 753.01 through 753.99 the following words, terms and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them below:

      (1)    "Licensed massage therapist". A person who is licensed under Ohio R.C. Chapter 4731 to practice massage therapy in the State of Ohio.

      (2)    "Massage service". Any method of exerting pressure on, stroking, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, vibrating, or stimulating the external soft tissue of the body with the hands, or with the aid of any mechanical or electrical apparatus or appliance in exchange for anything of value. Massage services shall also include the treatment of disorders of the human body by the manipulation of soft tissue through the systematic external application of massage techniques including touch, stroking, friction, vibration, percussion, kneading, stretching, compression, and joint movements within the normal physiologic range of motion; and adjunctive thereto, the external application of water, heat, cold, topical preparations, and mechanical devices in exchange for anything of value.

      (3)    "Massage therapy establishment'. Any entity or place of business where massage services are provided:

         A.   In exchange for anything of value; or

         B.   In connection with the provision of another legitimate service.

         C.   Nothing within the Massage Services Ordinance shall relieve any person from compliance with other applicable laws, including but not limited to, the building, health, planning, housing, zoning and fire codes. (Ord. 43-2022. Passed 8-1-22.)