Have your say on Newmarket's 'unique' bylaw that would ban erotic massage

Public feedback is due by Friday, June 4 for the new rules that allow only regulated health professionals to provide massage services

Newmarkettoday.ca
June 3, 2021

There's still time to have your say on Newmarket's proposed bylaw that would shut down body rub parlours.

You have until June 4 to provide your feedback to the bylaw that more clearly delineates erotic massage from legal businesses such as health spas.

The bylaw, which would prohibit sexual activity in such businesses, puts the onus of responsibility on business owners rather than attendants, Town of Newmarket manager of regulatory services Flynn Scott said.

With your feedback, we can get some great regulations before council for them to review and make the best and most informed decision,” Scott said.

The bylaw defines erotic massage establishments as those not offering massages from regulated health professionals. Business owners will be required to submit a floor plan, a list of their attendants and a signed lease indicating property owners are aware of the establishment. Most businesses must also show their attendants have training from an accredited institution, such as a 12-week college course.

The only exception is for types of massages for which accreditation may not exist, such as those not recognized in Western cultures.

Scott said the requirement to show accreditation does not exist elsewhere and is “unique to Newmarket,” as it aims to curb falsified certificates.

“We did receive extremely strong feedback from both community advocacy groups and other municipalities that we consulted that illegitimate certificates are often being produced,” Scott said.

He added although the provision should not be an issue for most local businesses, he encourages any business that might be impacted to provide feedback.

Another provision is that any applications could be further vetted with an interview by town staff, or be forwarded to York Region Public Health or York Regional Police for review. Scott said this can provide the town with relevant information and history about an applicant.

“This is a very powerful tool, and it is a big win for the town to vet applications through police,” Scott said.

Feedback is due by Friday, June 4 at noon by contacting licensing@newmarket.ca.

The bylaw will also be up for discussion at a special committee of the whole meeting June 16. You can request to make a delegation to council by contacting clerks@newmarket.ca.