Commercial Sex Venue Public Health Regulation

Los Angeles County adopted an ordinance on October 14, 2004, that redefined bathhouses and similar establishments as Commercial Sex Venues (CSVs). Regulations governing the inspection process were issued on November 10, 2005.

The ordinance, Bathhouses and Similar Commercial Establishments, requires the Health Officer to establish and enforce regulations intended to reduce public health risks associated with the operation of CSVs and to minimize high-risk sexual practices associated with the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Upon review and verification by the Health Officer that a CSV has met all regulatory requirements, a public health permit is issued to the owner in accordance with Los Angeles County Code, Title 11, Chapter 11.04, Part 3.

Public Health Investigation (PHI) Administration has been designated to conduct the inspection process. As authorized by County Code, the County Health Officer may enter and inspect any permitted CSV, or any location reasonably suspected of operating as a CSV, for the purpose of enforcing the regulations. Inspections may be conducted as necessary to ensure compliance. PHI Administration also responds to all inquiries regarding public health permits for Commercial Sex Venues.

For questions, complaints, or to apply for a permit, please email DPH-PHIAdmin@ph.lacounty.gov.

Authority:

Los Angeles County Code, Title 11, Chapter 11.04, Part 3

Commercial Sex Venue Regulations, issued November 10, 2005