Milpitas, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Massage Establishments (2026)

Municipal Code Chapter III-6 requires anyone practicing massage for compensation in Milpitas, whether as a sole provider, employee or rent-space therapist, to hold a valid California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) certificate, and requires every massage establishment to hold a City-issued permit in addition to a standard business license. Permit applicants file with the Chief of Police, submit fingerprints, a full ten-year employment history, and disclosure of any prior permit revocations or specified criminal convictions; the Chief of Police has up to 60 days to investigate before granting or denying the permit.

Applicants must carry massage malpractice insurance of at least $100,000 per licensed technician up to a $500,000 cap. Exemptions apply to licensed physicians, chiropractors, physical therapists, barbers and cosmetologists performing scope-limited services, and to sole providers who file their CAMTC certificate with the Chief of Police and still obtain a business license. Massage services may be provided only between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.; no customer may remain on the premises between 10:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Establishments must maintain a daily written register of clients, technicians and services for two years, available to police, code enforcement and the City Attorney.

Operating standards bar alcohol or drug possession on the premises, require patrons' genitals to remain fully covered, and prohibit massage of the genitals, anal region, or female breasts without written consent and a health provider referral.