Massage Business Requirements

In 2013, the City of Petaluma enacted an ordinance regulating Massage Establishments and Massage Professionals. This action was taken in an effort to combat human trafficking and other unlawful practices in Petaluma.

The ordinance has different requirements whether 1) you are a massage professional who works as a sole proprietor or an employee; and 2) whether you are a massage establishment certified by the California Massage Therapy Council.

Read the information below to learn how the ordinance affects you and to download any forms that might be necessary.

Massage Professional - Sole Proprietor

• Step 1: Receive and maintain certification through California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC)
• Step 2: Register with Code Enforcement Division before applying for/ renewing your business license. Use the Registration/Annual Registration form. *This will include a background check.*
• Step 3: Upon approval from Code Enforcement, apply for City of Petaluma business license (Apply here) and Home Occupation Permit if working out of your residence.

Massage Professional - Employee

• Step 1: Receive and maintain certification through California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC)
• Step 2: Your Employer must register you with Code Enforcement Division before you apply for/ renew your business license. Use the Registration/Annual Registration form. *This will include a background check.*
• Step 3: Upon approval from Code Enforcement, apply for City of Petaluma business license (Apply here) and Home Occupation Permit if working out of your residence.

Massage Establishment- CAMTC-Certified

• Step 1: Register annually with Code Enforcement Division.
• Step 2: Submit copies of your own CAMTC certificate and CAMTC certificates for each person employed or contracted with each year before renewing your business license, as well the CAMTC certificates of new hires within fifteen business days of hiring.
• Download Form here.
• Step 3: Upon approval from Code Enforcement, apply for valid City of Petaluma business license. Apply here.

Ordinance

Read the City's Massage ordinance here.