Bexar County, TX Business Licensing & Operations: Massage Establishments (2026)
Key Facts
- State licensing
- TDLR Occ Code 455
- Overnight closure
- Midnight to 5 a.m.
- Background checks
- Fingerprint required
- Anti-trafficking notice
- Must be posted
Summary
Massage establishments and therapists in Bexar County must hold a license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation under Occupations Code Chapter 455. The county and Sheriff partner with TDLR on inspections, anti-trafficking checks, and zoning enforcement.
CHAPTER 455. MASSAGE THERAPY. Sec. 455.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter: (1) 'Commission' means the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation. (1-a) 'Department' means the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. (2) 'Executive director' means the executive director of the department. (3) 'Instructor' means a person who instructs a student in any section of the course of instruction required for a massage therapist license. ... (5) 'Massage establishment' means a place of business that advertises or offers massage therapy or other massage services. The term includes a place of business that advertises or offers other services in addition to massage therapy.
Full Breakdown
Texas Occupations Code Chapter 455 places licensing of massage therapists, instructors, schools, and establishments under the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Operators in unincorporated Bexar County must hold a current TDLR establishment license, post it conspicuously, and ensure every therapist holds an individual license. State rules require specific training hours, fingerprint-based background checks, and prohibit operation between midnight and 5 a.m. The Bexar County Sheriff supports TDLR inspections and human trafficking investigations under Penal Code 20A. County land-use rules and city zoning also apply. Operators must maintain client records and post anti-trafficking notices.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a TDLR license, employing unlicensed therapists, or violating overnight closure rules exposes operators to TDLR administrative penalties up to 5,000 dollars per violation, criminal charges under Chapter 455, and trafficking-related state prosecution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a county license in addition to TDLR?
Are 24-hour massage spas allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bexar County
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