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Massage Establishments

Overview

Massage Businesses

MASSAGE PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

IMPORTANT: Environmental Health Services is transitioning to an online portal in 2024 to streamline the process of managing permits and billing. If you did not already respond to the postcard mailer or email that went out in November and December, please review the email (click here) for further instructions. It is critical that we collect contact information to designate someone as a primary user who will be responsible for managing your business’ online account.

Environmental Health Services (EHS) is responsible for inspecting massage businesses in unincorporated areas of San Mateo County.

Adhering to the Massage Business Ordinance, the County is responsible for providing a safer, more lawful work environment that contributes to a healthier community.

New Massage Businesses

If you are a new owner or business, please review this process before submitting an application:
Massage Business Registration Process

Once you have reviewed the Registration Process, please see the below forms and regulations:

Currently Permitted Massage Businesses

If you are a permitted facility that has an active permit, have practitioners to add and/or remove, or to review the Ordinance or current fees, please refer to the resources below:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register and submit an application for both practitioners and my business?

Yes. All practitioners for a facility must be registered with CAMTC and submit any new/transferred/or terminated practitioners within 96 hours using the Notification of Personnel Change Form. Each business must obtain a County Registration Certificate, and undergo a facility inspection to satisfy the minimum construction requirements for the facility. 

 What parts of the county does San Mateo County Environmental Health Services inspect, and does the inspector need to call before an inspection?

SMC Health Inspectors inspect massage businesses in unincorporated areas of San Mateo County. An inspector is not required to contact the business for entry to the facility on official business during regular business hours. The inspector will call to coordinate the initial facility inspection as part of the application review process.

How do I contact the inspector for massage businesses with San Mateo County?

Call 650-372-6200

I’m not in an unincorporated area of San Mateo County, who should I talk to?

Contact your local municipality for obtaining information on massage business application processes.

How long is a County Registration Certificate from San Mateo County valid for?

Each County Registration Certificate is valid for two (2) years, and must be renewed no less than 30 days before expiration.

How often are inspections?

Inspections will be conducted a minimum of one (1) time per year, not including reinspections or complaint inspections.