COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – The Coeur d’Alene City Council has approved amendments to the municipal code regulating massage facilities. This initiative aims to protect legitimate businesses and address concerns about illicit activities such as human trafficking and prostitution.
The amendments to Municipal Code Chapter 5.28 focus on distinguishing between legitimate and illegitimate massage practices. While the state of Idaho manages licensure for individual therapists, the city is responsible for regulating the facilities. The city will now require massage facilities to submit copies of therapist licenses with their application for licensure.
Renata McLeod, Municipal Services Director, spoke about the necessity of these changes. “We believe the code that we brought forward is a good balance,” McLeod said, emphasizing the importance of protecting legitimate businesses.
The updated regulations include requirements for English-speaking staff and records kept in English. Facilities must also provide a floor plan to prevent unauthorized alterations such as adding bedrooms. New facilities will undergo mandatory inspections by fire and building departments to ensure compliance with safety codes.
Additionally, the city council clarified that facilities cannot continue operations during an appeal process if a license is denied. Stakeholders were informed multiple times about the proposed changes, with no significant objections raised.
The council’s decision reflects broader concerns about the rise of illicit massage operations nationwide. Mayor McEvers emphasized, “These amendments reflect our commitment to public safety and community well-being.”
The amendments will take effect Thursday, July 17, 2025. They are seen as a step toward more effective local enforcement and are designed to uphold the integrity of Coeur d’Alene’s local economy while supporting licensed, law-abiding massage businesses.
