Today the Board of Supervisors passed a legislative package aimed at closing the loopholes for massage establishments.

After discovering that problematic establishments have been able to continue to operate even after repeated violations, Supervisor Carmen Chu convened several meetings with the Planning Department, SFPD Vice Crimes, the Department of Public Health, the District Attorney’s Office, Anti-Trafficking groups and members of the Joint Task Force to find a solution.

The results of Supervisor Chu’s meetings included an important administrative change that resulted in increased collaboration with between the Department of Public Health and law enforcement, as well as these two ordinances that passed today.

“I thank the community for their support and attention on this issue,” said Supervisor Carmen Chu. “Creating a public process for these establishments in combination with the increased criminal penalties will create more accountability and transparency.”

The first ordinance, sponsored by Supervisor Carmen Chu, Board President David Chiu and Mayor Gavin Newsom, amends the Planning Code to require establishments seeking to add massage as an “accessory”, or secondary, use go through the same public process at the Planning Commission as establishments where massage is the primary business. The ordinance creates an opportunity for the City to establish the conditions under which the business can operate; such as having a transparent and open façade, pedestrian-oriented lighting, or removing barriers to entry.

The second ordinance amends the Health Code to restrict the hours of operation, increase the penalties for violations making it easier to suspend and revoke licenses for violations, such as using the establishment as a living quarters, having underage employees or unlicensed practitioners.