Edmond council adopts code changes for massage-therapy businesses and approves emergency clause

Edmond — The City Council adopted an amendment to Title 22 of the Edmond Municipal Code to create specific zoning rules for massage-therapy businesses and approved an emergency clause making the changes effective immediately.

Ken Bryan, the city’s Director of Planning, told the council staff recommended several changes: add definitions consistent with the State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering, separate massage therapy from general retail and service categories (requiring a specific use permit in applicable zoning districts), require businesses to post therapists’ state licenses, and prohibit opaque tint on front-facing windows.

Councilmembers pressed staff for clarity about whether window coverings (blinds, curtains) would be considered an unlawful opaque covering; staff said the ordinance language prohibits anything that would prevent seeing through the window and that the city attorney would need to provide specific guidance. One councilmember described the ordinance as a “first step” and asked staff to continue work on related issues.

There were no public comments on the ordinance. The council approved the ordinance 5–0 and approved the emergency clause 5–0, which staff said will require existing businesses to come into compliance by the end of the year unless an alternative timetable is specified in the ordinance text.