Certainly there are many advantages to state licensing. One of the advantages is mobility within a state as opposed to a city or county license where licensing is usually not transferable from one city or county to another. The latter translates into more fees, retesting (if applicable) and waiting for approval. Another issue is a local jurisdiction is not likely to have a massage board whose members include those familiar with the industry. In fact, in some local jurisdictions massage licensing is a function of the police department.

No matter which department handles massage licensing, a local jurisdiction’s control of licensing generally falls to those who have limited, if not incorrect, knowledge of the massage industry. Unfortunately, this lack of understanding can pose a problem for those who wish to be in business in such a jurisdiction. They may create rules that bog down a business.

For example, a California city had a rule that said only licensed therapists, managers and clients could go beyond the lobby, making no allowance for cleaning people, paramedics, firemen or a receptionist.

If your state does not have state licensing, before settling on a particular city, take the time to visit the licensing department. Go through past city (or county if applicable) council agendas that pertain to the industry to see what their concerns are and read the current ordinance. Many cities have their ordinances available free online here.

Once you’re in business, it’s a good idea to keep up with what the city council or county is doing, if the city or county is your licensing jurisdiction. Their agenda may be online and some cities will even e-mail you when they upload the latest agenda.

If your state has state licensing, you may read the laws online and of course you will want to keep up with any proposed legislation that pertains to your industry.

Note the laws governing your industry by carefully reading and even rereading them. Sometimes these legal documents can be pretty daunting. Ask for clarification on any language you’re uncertain about. Write down any interpretations and note the date and the name of the official who explained the law to you. The law may even have location and structural requirements for your business.