Fairfax County, VA Business Licensing & Operations: Massage Establishments (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- Fairfax County Department
- Expires
- December 31 annually
- Per location
- separate permit each
- Transferable
- no
Summary
Operating a massage establishment in Fairfax County without a valid, unsuspended permit from the Department is unlawful, with permits issued per business location and expiring every December 31.
(a)It is unlawful for any person to operate a massage establishment in Fairfax County unless that person possesses a valid, unsuspended permit issued by the Department. Only a person who complies with the requirements of this Chapter shall be entitled to receive or retain such a permit. Each permit will be issued to the applicant only. Each permit will be issued only for the place of business described in the application. A person operating more than one (1) massage establishment must possess a separate permit for each such place of business. Permits are issued for a calendar year and expire on December 31st regardless of the month of issue.(b)An initial application or a renewal application will be required for each permit. The application fee shall be based on a calendar year. Initial application fees are due and payable upon application. Renewal applications and corresponding fees are due by December 31st of the year preceding the requested renewal permit. The application fees will not be prorated. (30-25-28.2)
Full Breakdown
Fairfax County requires every massage establishment to hold a permit from the Department before opening. Permits are tied to a specific applicant and a specific business address, so operators running more than one location need a separate permit for each. Permits run on a calendar year regardless of when they're issued, expiring December 31, and renewal applications with fees are due by that date to avoid a late fee.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a valid permit is unlawful under Chapter 28.2; the Department can deny, suspend or revoke permits for disqualifying offenses or Chapter violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can one permit cover two massage locations?
When do Fairfax County massage permits expire?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fairfax County
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