Des Moines licenses adult entertainment establishments under Ch. 42 with strict zoning buffers, age restrictions, and operational limits enforced by the City Clerk and DSMPD vice unit.
Adult entertainment businesses in Des Moines require a city license issued by the City Clerk and must comply with zoning buffers from schools, churches, residences, and parks under Ch. 134. No-touch rules apply between performers and patrons. Hours are limited and alcohol service triggers additional Iowa ABD licensing. Performers must be 18+ with on-site ID. Background checks are required for owners and managers. Annual license renewal includes inspection by DSMPD and the Building Inspection Division.
License revocation, fines up to $750 per offense, Ch. 60 misdemeanor charges, and forced closure for repeat zoning or age-verification violations.
See how Des Moines's adult entertainment rules stack up against other locations.
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