Approval is required by the City prior to any business engaging in the activity of adult entertainment or picture machine operation in a restaurant, bar, tavern or any other public place, or to rent or lease such machines in the City.
Adult entertainment uses are only allowed in certain areas of the City. See Tacoma Municipal Code 13.06.525.B for more information prior to determining a site location for your business.
Additional licenses and approval are required for a person to work as an Adult Entertainment Manager or Adult Entertainer in the City.
The business activity of adult entertainment or operation of picture machines requires review by Planning and Development Services (PDS), Fire, Police and Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department prior the activity being conducted for the protection of public welfare, health and safety of citizens.
Please contact Tax & License at (253) 591-5252 to discuss your activity and applications needed prior to opening your business.
Once a completed application is submitted allow at least 10-15 business days to receive notice of approval or denial of your license.
Adult Entertainment is defined as:
1. Any exhibition, performance, or dance of any type conducted in a premises where such exhibition, performance, or dance involves a person who is unclothed or in such costume, attire, or clothing as to expose any portion of the female breast below the top of the areola or any portion of the pubic region, anus, buttocks, vulva, or genitals, or wearing any device or covering exposed to view which simulates the appearance of any portion of the female breast below the top of the areola or any portion of the pubic region, anus, buttocks, vulva, or genitals, or human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state, even if completely and opaquely covered.
2. Any exhibition, performance, or dance of any type conducted in a premises where such exhibition, performance, or dance is distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on the depiction, description, simulation, or relation to the
following specified sexual activities:
a. Human genitals in a state of sexual stimulation or arousal;
b. Acts of human masturbation, sexual intercourse, or sodomy;
c. Fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or female breast.
Non-Licensed Adult Entertainment Business
Employees working at a business that is not licensed to engage in “adult entertainment”, must wear attire that fits adequately so that all minimum body areas always remain covered when the wearer is working, including sitting, standing, bending, reaching, or performing other work duties.
The owner is responsible to ensure that all employees comply with the acceptable attire.
You can find more information in Tacoma Municipal Code Chapter 6B.30 about adult entertainment license requirements.