Supervisors Ronan and Mandelmann propose zoning changes for San Francisco massage establishments
June 03, 2021 | San Francisco City, San Francisco County, California
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The San Francisco City Commission convened to discuss the Massage Establishment Zoning Controls Ordinance, a significant legislative effort aimed at easing the operational hurdles for local massage practitioners. Co-sponsored by Supervisors Ronan and Mandelmann, the ordinance seeks to amend the planning code, allowing massage businesses to operate in areas currently designated for other health services.
Paul Monquet from Supervisor Ronan's office highlighted that the existing regulations create unnecessary barriers for legitimate massage establishments, often driven by outdated stigmas linking the industry to human trafficking. The proposed changes would align massage establishments with other health services, permitting them in any commercial zoning district where health services are allowed, while maintaining necessary oversight to prevent illicit activities.
Key provisions of the ordinance include allowing general massage establishments to operate in any commercial zone, with restrictions on operating above the second floor unless located in a hotel. Additionally, a new regulation would impose a three-year prohibition on personal service businesses at locations where massage establishments were previously shut down due to violations, enhancing enforcement against bad actors.
The ordinance is seen as a crucial step towards supporting small businesses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted the massage industry. The Department of Public Health (DPH) has expressed support for the legislation, emphasizing its commitment to monitoring and enforcing regulations to ensure compliance and safety.
Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and concern. Some community members voiced apprehension about loosening restrictions, citing past issues with illicit activities in certain neighborhoods. Others, including landlords and business owners, advocated for the changes, arguing that they would help revitalize commercial spaces and support legitimate health services.
As the commission deliberates, the proposed ordinance represents a balancing act between fostering small business growth and ensuring public safety, with the potential to reshape the landscape of massage services in San Francisco. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential modifications before the ordinance is finalized.
Paul Monquet from Supervisor Ronan's office highlighted that the existing regulations create unnecessary barriers for legitimate massage establishments, often driven by outdated stigmas linking the industry to human trafficking. The proposed changes would align massage establishments with other health services, permitting them in any commercial zoning district where health services are allowed, while maintaining necessary oversight to prevent illicit activities.
Key provisions of the ordinance include allowing general massage establishments to operate in any commercial zone, with restrictions on operating above the second floor unless located in a hotel. Additionally, a new regulation would impose a three-year prohibition on personal service businesses at locations where massage establishments were previously shut down due to violations, enhancing enforcement against bad actors.
The ordinance is seen as a crucial step towards supporting small businesses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted the massage industry. The Department of Public Health (DPH) has expressed support for the legislation, emphasizing its commitment to monitoring and enforcing regulations to ensure compliance and safety.
Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and concern. Some community members voiced apprehension about loosening restrictions, citing past issues with illicit activities in certain neighborhoods. Others, including landlords and business owners, advocated for the changes, arguing that they would help revitalize commercial spaces and support legitimate health services.
As the commission deliberates, the proposed ordinance represents a balancing act between fostering small business growth and ensuring public safety, with the potential to reshape the landscape of massage services in San Francisco. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential modifications before the ordinance is finalized.
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