Glendale, AZ Business Licensing & Operations: Adult Entertainment (2026)

Chapter 21.2 of the Glendale Code requires an operator's license before anyone may run an adult business, a manager's license and ID card for every on-site manager, and a performer's or model's license for every adult cabaret performer, escort, nude model, semi-nude performer or topless bar performer, under Section 21.2-21. Each classification of adult business at one location needs its own separate operator's license and fee, and a business with more than one operator must designate a prime operator responsible for the annual fee, per Section 21.2-22.

The Chief of Police runs a criminal history and fingerprint background check on every applicant under Section 21.2-25, and Section 21.2-23 disqualifies anyone convicted of specified sex offenses or prostitution-related crimes: a single misdemeanor conviction bars licensing for 2 years, two or more misdemeanors within 5 years bar licensing for 5 years, and any felony conviction bars licensing for 5 years, all measured from the later of the conviction date or release from confinement. Applications go to the Tax and License Division and must include five years of address and employment history, proof of age, and a sketch of the premises' manager stations, viewing rooms and cameras under Sections 21.2-26 and 21.2-27.

The Tax and License Manager must approve or deny a complete application within 60 days, issuing a temporary 60-day license within 15 days of a complete filing while the full review proceeds, per Section 21.2-30. Annual licenses expire December 31 and must be renewed by January 31 of the following year.