HomeMy WebLinkAbout021312_ra03
Regular Agenda
JEFFERSON COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
AGENDA REQUEST
FROM:
Board of County Commissioners
Philip Morley, County Administrator
Stacie Hoskins, Department of Conununity Development (DCD) Interim Director &
Planning Manager !J>>r ~
David Wayne Johnson, Associate Planner ~ .
February 13,2012
Sexually Oriented Business Licensing and Development Regulations
TO:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
STATEMENT OF ISSUE:
The Planning Agency and Board of County Commissioners have determined a need for Sexually Oriented
Business (SOB) regulations. Both the siting and licensing provisions are important to the overall
regulation of these types of businesses. Moratoria per RCW 36.70A.390 has allowed Jefferson County
time to establish appropriate siting criteria and licensing regulations prior to submittal of development
proposals. The most recent moratorium (Ord No. 03-1024-11) was adopted October 25,2011 and expires
April 24, 2012. The Planning Commission completed its review of and made its final reconunendation on
land use siting regulations to the Board on February 2, 2011. Staffhas now completed its review of the
licensing provisions to be amended to Title 5 of the Jefferson County Code and would like to present its
findings and request for further action.
Notice of Public Hearing
Planning Conunission reconunendation for SOB development regulations
Proposed Chapter 5.10 JCC
ATTACHMENTS:
FINDINGS:
. Staffhas reviewed the attached proposed code JCC Chapter 5.10 to regulate the licensing of SOBs
and made changes specific to Jefferson County and to that process.
. Staffhas determined that if adopted, the Sheriff will process applications for Sexually Oriented
Business licenses under proposed JCC Chapter 5.10.
. The regulations for applications for siting SOBs under JCC Title 18 if adopted, will be processed
by the DCD.
. Because the siting and licensing of SOBs are controlled by different titles of the JCC, they must be
enacted under separate ordinances.
. The siting regulations for SOBs may move forward without a public hearing should the Board
accept the attached Planning Commission reconunendation of February 2,2011 and could be
enacted before the expiration of the current moratorium on April 24th.
. The licensing of SOBs will require a public hearing before enacting those regulations
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Regular Agenda
. The proposed licensing code has provisions that existing SOBs must be licensed once that code is
adopted, therefore, there would be no need for further moratoria if the siting regulations under
Chapter 18 were enacted before the expiration of the current moratorium.
. Both siting and licensing could be consolidated into one public hearing before adopting any of the
proposed regulations.
. Staffhas determined that an appropriate date for such a public hearing would be March 12,2012
per the attached notice of public hearing.
ANALYSIS/STRATEGIC GOALS/PROS and CONS:
To date there have been a total of nine (9) SOB moratoria adopted by the Board dating back to March
200S. During the public hearing for the current moratorium, the Board made clear its desire to move
forward on this issue as soon as possible. Adopting another moratorium could be avoided before the
expiration of the current moratorium should the Board either accept the Planning Commission
recommendation and instruct staff to forward an adopting ordinance to the Board for signing, or not accept
the Planning Commission recommendation and hold a public hearing to hear testimony on both siting and
licensing regulations, then instruct staff to forward adopting ordinances for both before April 9,2012 at
which time a request and notice of public hearing for a new moratorium would be required.
FISCAL IMP ACT/COST -BENEFIT ANALYSIS:
Applications for siting Sexually Oriented Businesses at the permit level will be paid by the applicant
consistent with the county fee ordinance. Establishing licensing requirements for SOBs includes fees to be
paid by the applicant to pay for the Sheriff's Department to review licensing applications and enforce SOB
licenses.
RECOMMENDATION:
DCD recommends the BOCC:
1. Accept the Planning Commission recommendation of February 2,2011 and instruct staff to
forward an adopting ordinance to the Board for possible approval prior to expiration of the
existing moratorium Ordinance No. 03-1024-11 on April 24, 2012.
2. Approve the attached notice for a public hearing on March 12,2012 to hear testimony on adopting
Chapter 5.10 to the JCC to regulate licensing of SOBs.
REVIEWED BY:
2/~/
Date
2
Regular Agenda
To:
Port Townsend & Jefferson County Leader
LEGAL NOTICE
Publish one (1) time:
VVednesday,February22,20t2
Please use 7-ooint font.
BiII:
Jefferson County Department of Community Development
621 Sheridan St., Port Townsend, W A 98368
Customer #: 17385
Stacie Hoskins, Planning Manager, (360) 379-4450
Staff Contact:
Date:
February 17,2012
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing
on Monday, March 12, 2012 at 10:15 AM in the Board Chambers at the Jefferson County Courthouse, 1820
Jefferson Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368.
The purpose of the public hearing is to hear testimony regarding licensing and operations pertaining to adult, or
sexually oriented businesses.
For further information, please contact Long-Range Planning, Dept. of Community Development, 621 Sheridan
Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368, (360) 379-4465.
Date: 2/1312012
John Austin, Chair
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Chapter 5.10
LICENSING AND OPERATION OF SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS FACILITIES
Sections:
Article I. Generally
5.10.010 Purpose.
5.10.020 Scope.
5.10.030 Definitions.
5.10.040 Penalties.
5.10.050 Nuisance.
5.10.060 Activities not prohibited.
Article II. Licensing Requirements
5.10.070 License required.
5.10.075 Fees.
5.10.080 Application for Sexually Oriented business license.
5.10.090 Application for manager's or entertainer's license.
5.10.100 Initial investigation.
5.10.110 Issuance and denial of licenses.
5.10.120 Renewal of licenses.
5.10.130 Nontransferability of licenses.
5.10.140 Suspension and revocation of licenses.
5.10.150 Appeal of denial, suspension, or revocation of license.
5.10.160 Inspections and public health and safety suspensions.
5.10.170 Recordkeeping requirements and monthly reports.
5.10.180 License requirement for existing Sexually Oriented Business facilities.
Article III. Operational Requirements
5.10.190 Regulations applicable to all Sexually Oriented Business facilities.
5.10.200 Regulations specifically applicable to Sexually Oriented cabarets.
5.10.210 Regulations specifically applicable to Sexually Oriented Arcades.
Article I. Generally
5.10.010 Purpose
.
It is the intended purpose of this chapter to recognize the importance and
benefits of freedom of expression to a democratic society. Experience has shown,
however, that Sexually Oriented Business facilities, as defined herein, are detrimental to
the public health, safety and welfare. Sexually Oriented Business facilities are
historically linked with organized crime, prostitution, narcotics, and other unlawful and
criminal activity. These activities often lead to the development of public nuisances,
including moral nuisances. Therefore, the licensing and operation of Sexually Oriented
Business facilities should be regulated and monitored through the system of licensing
and operating regulations contained in this chapter.
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5.10.020 Scope
.
This chapter governs the licensing and operation of all Sexually Oriented Business
facilities within the County. The location and siting of Sexually Oriented Business
facilities is governed by the zoning regulations contained in JCC Title 18. All Sexually
Oriented Business facilities shall satisfy the requirements of this chapter and Title 18.
5.10.030 Definitions
For the purposes of this chapter, certain terms and words are defined as follows:
"Applicant" means a person or persons applying for a license under this chapter.
"County" means Jefferson County, Washington.
"Employee" means any person, including a manager, entertainer, escort, or nude model
or server, or semi-nude model or server who works in or renders any services directly
related to the operation of any Sexually Oriented Business facility, whether or not such
person is paid compensation by the owner or operator of the Sexually Oriented
Business facility.
"Entertainer" means any person who provides live entertainment in a Sexually Oriented
Business facility during which the person exposes any specified anatomical areas or
performs any specified sexual activities, whether or not the person is an employee of
the Sexually Oriented Business facility and whether or not a fee is charged or accepted
for such entertainment.
"Entertainer's license" means a license issued by the Sheriff under this chapter to an
entertainer, escort, or nude or semi-nude model.
"Escort" means a person employed by an escort agency, and who, for any form of
consideration, agrees or offers to act as a companion, guide, or date for another person,
or who agrees or offers to privately model lingerie or to privately perform a striptease for
another person.
"Escort agency" means a person or business association that furnishes, offers to
furnish, or advertises to furnish escorts as its principal business purpose for a fee, tip, or
other consideration. The term "escort agency" shall not include any escort service
offered by a charity or nonprofit organization for medical assistance or assistance to the
elderly or infirm.
"Licensee" means a person or persons in whose name a license to operate a Sexually
Oriented Business facility has been issued under this chapter, as well as the individual
listed as an applicant on the application for a license, and in the case of a manager,
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entertainer, escort, or nude or semi-nude model, a person in whose name a license has
been issued authorizing employment or entertainment in a sexually Oriented Business
facility.
"Manager" means any person who manages, directs, or administers the affairs or
conduct of a portion of the activity within Sexually Oriented Business facility, including
assistant managers working with or under the direction of a manager to carry out such
purposes.
"Manager's license" means a license issued by the Sheriff under this chapter to a
manager or assistant manager of a Sexually Oriented Business facility.
"Nude" means the appearance of less than complete and opaque covering of the
human anus, human male genitals, human female genitals, or the areola or nipple of the
human female breast. The opaque covering shall be made of material or fabric but shall
not include any liquid substance, including mud, water, lotion, whipping cream, or other
similar substances that are easily broken down or removed and do not offer the
covering intended for an opaque covering.
"Nude or semi-nude model" means a person who, for any form of consideration, agrees
or offers to appear nude or semi-nude in a nude or semi-nude model studio.
"Nude or semi-nude model studio" means any place where a person appears nude or
semi-nude for money or any other form of consideration, to be observed, sketched,
drawn, painted, sculptured, photographed, or similarly depicted by another person. The
following uses are exceptions to the definition of a "nude or semi-nude model studio":
1. A proprietary school licensed by the state of Washington;
2. A junior college, college, or university supported partly or entirely by public
funds;
3. A private college or university that maintains and operates educational
programs in which credits are transferable to a junior college, college, or
university supported partly or entirely by public funds; and
4. A place housed in a structure (a) that has no advertising visible from the
exterior of the structure that indicates a nude or semi-nude model is available
for viewing; and (b) where, in order to participate in a class, a student must
enroll at least three days in advance of the class.
"Other Sexually Oriented Business facility" means any commercial establishment not
defined herein where Sexually Oriented Business or sexually oriented materials are
regularly conducted, displayed, or available in any form, for any type of consideration;
provided, however, that a public library, and a school, university, or similar educational
or scientific facility shall not be considered a Sexually Oriented Business facility. In
addition, a commercial establishment that offers access to telecommunications
networks as its principal business purpose shall not be considered a Sexually Oriented
Business facility unless the access it provides is for the primary purpose of displaying or
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presenting visual images that are distinguished or characterized by a predominant
emphasis on matters depicting, describing, or simulating any specified sexual activities
or any specified anatomical areas.
"Owner or operator" means any person who owns, operates, or has a significant interest
in a Sexually Oriented Business facility, with significant interest being based on
responsibility for management of the business. Where a Sexually Oriented Business
facility is owned or operated by a partnership, then each partner shall be deemed an
owner or operator of the business. Where a Sexually Oriented Business facility is
owned or operated by a corporation, including a limited liability organization, then each
officer, director and principal stockholder shall be deemed an owner or operator of the
business. For the purposes of this chapter, a principal stockholder is a person who
owns or controls 20 percent or greater interest in a Sexually Oriented Business facility.
"Person" means an individual, association, corporation, estate, firm, joint venture,
partnership, proprietorship, trust, or other legal entity.
"Semi-nude" means a state of dress in which the clothing completely and opaquely
covers no more than the genitals, pubic region, and areola and nipple of the female
breast, as well as portions of the body covered by supporting straps or devices.
"Sexually Oriented Arcade" means a commercial establishment containing individual
viewing areas or booths where, for any form of consideration, including a membership
fee, one or more still or motion picture projectors, slide projectors, or other similar
image- producing machines are used to show films, motion pictures, video cassettes,
slides, or other visual representations that are distinguished or characterized by a
predominant emphasis on matters depicting, describing, or simulating any specified
sexual activities or any specified anatomical areas.
"Sexually Oriented Business" means:
1. Any exhibition, performance or dance conducted in an Sexually Oriented
Business facility where such exhibition, performance or dance is distinguished
or characterized by a predominant emphasis on matters depicting, describing,
or simulating any specified sexual activities or any specified anatomical areas;
or
2. Any exhibition, performance or dance intended to sexually stimulate any
patron and conducted in a Sexually Oriented Business facility where such
exhibition, performance or dance is performed for, arranged with, or engaged
in with fewer than all patrons in the Sexually Oriented Business facility at that
time, with separate consideration paid, either directly or indirectly, for such
performance, exhibition or dance. For purposes of example and not limitation,
such exhibitions, performances or dances are commonly referred to as table
dancing, couch dancing, taxi dancing, lap dancing, private dancing or straddle
dancing.
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"Sexually Oriented Business facility" means a commercial establishment defined herein
as a Sexually Oriented Arcade, Sexually Oriented cabaret, Sexually Oriented motion
picture theater, Sexually Oriented retail store, or other establishment where Sexually
Oriented Business is offered, including but not limited to private membership clubs.
"Sexually Oriented Business license" means a license issued by the Sheriff under this
chapter to the owner or operator of a Sexually Oriented Business facility.
"Sexually Oriented Cabaret" means a nightclub, bar, restaurant, tavern, or other similar
commercial establishment, whether or not alcoholic beverages are served, that regularly
features:
1. Persons who appear nude or semi-nude; or
2. Live performances which are distinguished or characterized by a predominant
emphasis on matters depicting, describing, or simulating any specified
anatomical areas or any specified sexual activities.
"Sexually oriented materials" means any books, magazines, periodicals or other printed
materials, or any photographs, films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides, or other
visual representations, that are distinguished or characterized by a predominant
emphasis on matters depicting, describing, or simulating any specified sexual activities
or any specified anatomical areas. The term "sexually oriented materials" includes any
instruments, devices, or paraphernalia designed for use in connection with any specified
sexual activities.
"Sheriff" means Jefferson County, Washington, Sheriff, staff member, or designee
assigned to carry out a particular Sheriff assignment or job function, as appropriate.
"Sexually Oriented motion picture theater" means an enclosed commercial
establishment where, for any form of consideration, motion pictures, films, video
cassettes, slides, or other similar visual media are regularly shown that are
distinguished or characterized by a predominant emphasis on matters depicting,
describing, or simulating any specified sexual activities or any specified anatomical
areas.
"Sexually Oriented Retail Store" means an enclosed building, or any portion thereof
which, for money or any other form of consideration, devotes a significant or substantial
portion of stock in trade to the sale, exchange, rental, loan, trade, transfer or viewing of
sexually oriented materials. For purposes of this definition, a retail store devotes a
significant or substantial portion of its stock in trade to sexually oriented materials if the
sale, exchange, rental, loan, trade, transfer or viewing of such sexually oriented
materials is clearly material to the economic viability of the business. It is rebuttably
presumed that such sexually oriented materials are clearly material to the viability of the
business if sexually oriented materials accounts for:
1. Twenty-five percent or more of the retail dollar value of gross sales over any
quarterly period;
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2. Twenty-five percent or more of the floor area of the store open to the public;
3. Twenty-five percent or more of the retail dollar value of all merchandise
displayed in the store;
4. Twenty-five percent or more of the store's inventory (whether measured by
retail dollar value or number of items); or
5. Twenty-five percent or more of the store's stock in trade.
In no event shall a retailer whose transactions only incidentally or marginally
relate to sexually oriented materials be considered a sexually oriented retail
store.
"Specified anatomical areas" means and includes any of the following:
1. Less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals, pubic region,
anus, buttocks, or female breast below the top of the areola; or
2. The human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state, even if completely and
opaquely covered.
"Specified criminal offense" means an offense for prostitution or promotion of
prostitution, sale or distribution of obscenity, sale or display of materials harmful to
minors, public lewdness, indecent exposure, or transactions involving controlled
substances (as that term is defined in Chapter RCW 69.50 Uniform Controlled
Substances Act) for which:
1. Less than two years have elapsed since the date of conviction or the date of
release from confinement imposed for the conviction, whichever is later, if the
conviction is of a misdemeanor offense; or
2. Less than five years have elapsed since the date of conviction or the date of
release from confinement imposed for the conviction, whichever is later, if the
conviction is of a felony offense; or
3. Less than five years have elapsed since the date of the last conviction or the
date of release from confinement imposed for the last conviction, whichever is
later, if the convictions are of two or more misdemeanor offenses occurring
within a 24 month period.
"Specified sexual activities" means and includes any of the following:
1. The caressing, fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic
region, buttocks, anus, or female breasts; or
2. Sex acts, normal or perverted, actual or simulated, including but not limited to
intercourse, oral copulation, or sodomy; or
3. Masturbation, actual or simulated; or
4. Excretory functions as part of, or in connection with, any of the sexual activities
specified in this definition;
5. Violent or destructive sexual behavior, including but not limited to human or
animal mutilation, dismemberment, rape or torture.
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5.10.040 Penalties
.
A. Criminal Penalty. In addition to any other penalty provided in this chapter or by
law, any person who violates any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor. Any person convicted of such a violation shall be punished by a fine of
not more than $1,000 or by a jail term of not more than 90 days, or by both such fine
and imprisonment.
B. Separate Offense. Any person who violates any provision of this chapter or
failing to comply with any of the mandatory requirements of this chapter is guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which the violation is
committed, continued, or permitted by any such person. .
5.10.050 Nuisance
.
A. Public Nuisance. Any Sexually Oriented Business facility operated, conducted,
or maintained in violation of this chapter or any law of Jefferson County shall be
deemed a public nuisance, and all remedies given by law for the prevention and
abatement of public nuisances shall apply regardless of any other remedy.
B. Moral Nuisance. Any Sexually Oriented Business facility operated, conducted,
or maintained contrary to the provisions of Chapter RCW 7.48A (Moral Nuisances) shall
be deemed a moral nuisance, and all remedies given by law for the prevention and
abatement of moral nuisances shall apply in addition to any other remedy. .
5.10.060 Activities not prohibited
.
A. This chapter shall not be construed to restrict or prohibit the following activities
or products: (1) plays, operas, musicals or other dramatic works that are not obscene;
(2) classes, seminars, or lectures which are held for a serious scientific or educational
purpose and that are not obscene; and (3) exhibitions, performances, expressions or
dances that are not obscene.
B. The provisions of this chapter are not intended to and do not prohibit the
simulation of sex acts which are part of nonobscene expression.
C. Whether or not activity is obscene shall be judged by consideration of the
following factors:
1. Whether the average person, applying contemporary community standards,
would find that the activity taken as a whole appeals to an obsessive interest in
sex; and
2. Whether the activity depicts or describes sexual conduct in a patently offensive
way, as measured against community standards, and as described in RCW
7.48A.010; and
3. Whether the activity taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political or
scientific value. .
Article II. Licensing Requirements
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5.10.070 License required
.
A. It is unlawful for any person to operate a Sexually Oriented Business facility
unless that person is the holder of a valid Sexually Oriented business premises license
issued by the Sheriff under this chapter.
B. It is unlawful for any person to work as a manager in a Sexually Oriented
Business facility unless that person is the holder of a valid manager's license issued by
the Sheriff under this chapter.
C. It is unlawful for any person to work or perform as an entertainer in a Sexually
Oriented Business facility unless that person is the holder of a valid entertainer's license
issued by the Sheriff under this chapter.
D. It is unlawful for any person to work or perform as an escort unless that
person is the holder of a valid entertainer's license issued by the Sheriff under this
chapter.
E. It is unlawful for any person to work or perform as a nude or semi-nude model
in a Sexually Oriented Business facility unless that person is the holder of a valid
entertainer's license issued by the Sheriff under this chapter.
F. It is unlawful for the owner or operator of a Sexually Oriented Business facility
to employ a person to work as a manager at the Sexually Oriented Business facility
unless that person is licensed as a manager under this chapter.
G. It is unlawful for the owner or operator of a Sexually Oriented Business facility
to employ a person to work or perform as an entertainer at the Sexually Oriented
Business facility unless that person is licensed as an entertainer under this chapter.
H. It is unlawful for the owner or operator of a Sexually Oriented Business facility
to employ a person to work or perform as an escort unless that person is licensed as an
escort under this chapter.
I. It is unlawful for the owner or operator of a Sexually Oriented Business facility
to employ a person to work or perform as a nude or semi-nude model unless that
person is licensed as an entertainer under this chapter. .
5.10.075 Fees
.
All fees are payable in advance at the time of submittal of the application and are not
refundable. The license year for all fees required under this chapter shall be January 1st
to December 31st. All license fees shall be payable on an annual basis without
proration, which fees shall be as follows:
A. Sexually Oriented Business premises license: $2,500 per year;
B. Sexually Oriented entertainer's license: $250.00 per year;
C. Sexually Oriented Business manager's license: $1,000 per year;
D. Other licenses (escort, model): $250.00 per year.
5.10.080 Application for Sexually Oriented business license.
A. No person shall own or operate a Sexually Oriented Business facility within
Jefferson County without a valid Sexually Oriented business license issued by the
Sheriff.
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B. Each person qualifying as an owner or operator of the proposed Sexually
Oriented Business facility shall submit a separate application. Each applicant shall be
separately qualified under this chapter.
C. All applications shall be submitted to Sheriff on a form supplied by the Sheriff
and shall contain or be accompanied by all of the following information and documents:
1. The date of the application.
2. The legal name, any previous names, any aliases, any driver's license
number, any Social Security number, and the date of birth of the applicant.
3. If the applicant is a partner in a partnership, the applicant shall state the
complete name of the partnership, state whether the partnership is general or
limited, and state the legal names of all partners.
4. If the applicant is an officer, director, or principal stockholder of a corporation,
including a limited liability organization, the applicant shall state the complete
name of the corporation, state the date of its incorporation, state the name of
the registered corporate agent, state the address of the registered office for
service of process, and provide evidence that the corporation is in good
standing under the laws of the state of Washington.
5. A description of the principal activities and services to be offered by the
proposed Sexually Oriented Business facility, including a summary of the
types of Sexually Oriented Business and sexually oriented materials to be
offered for sale or rent by the proposed Sexually Oriented Business facility.
6. A description of the principal activities and services to be rendered by the
applicant with respect to the proposed Sexually Oriented Business facility.
7. A statement whether the applicant has been convicted of a specified criminal
offense, and if so, the date, place, and jurisdiction of each specified criminal
offense.
8. A statement whether the applicant holds any license issued under this chapter
or under a similar ordinance from another city or county, and if so, the
operating names and locations of the other licensed businesses.
9. A statement whether the applicant has had a previous license issued under
this chapter denied, suspended, or revoked, and if so, the name and location
of the Sexually Oriented Business facility for which the license was denied,
suspended, or revoked, as well as the date of the denial, suspension, or
revocation.
10. A statement whether the applicant has been a partner in a partnership or an
officer, director, or principal stockholder of a corporation that has had a
previous license under this chapter denied, suspended, or revoked, and if so,
the name and location of the Sexually Oriented Business facility for which the
license was denied, suspended, or revoked, as well as the date of the denial,
suspension, or revocation.
11.The proposed location of the Sexually Oriented Business facility, including a
legal description of the property, street address, and telephone numbers, if
any.
12. The present mailing and residential address of the applicant.
13. Two two-inch by two-inch color photographs of the applicant, taken within six
9
months of the date of the application, showing the full face of the applicant.
The photographs shall be provided at the expense of the applicant.
14. A complete set of fingerprints of the applicant, taken by a designated county
official, on a form adopted and approved by the Jefferson County Sheriff's
department.
15. A sketch or diagram showing the configuration of the premises, including a
statement of total floor space to be occupied by the Sexually Oriented
Business facility. The sketch or diagram shall be drawn to a designated scale
to an accuracy of plus or minus six inches.
16. Authorization for the County, its agents, and employees to seek information
to confirm any statements or other information set forth in the application.
D. An application shall be deemed complete upon receipt of all the information
and documents requested by this section. Where necessary to determine compliance
with this chapter, the Sheriff may request information or clarification in addition to that
provided in a complete application.
E. If any person or entity acquires, subsequent to the issuance of an Sexually
Oriented Business license, a significant interest in the licensed Sexually Oriented
Business facility, notice of such acquisition shall be provided in writing to the Sheriff
within 21 calendar days following such acquisition and the person acquiring the interest
shall submit a complete application to the Sheriff pursuant to this section within 45
calendar days of acquiring such interest. For the purpose of this section, "significant
interest" means principal responsibility for management or operation of a Sexually
Oriented Business facility.
F. Each Sexually Oriented Business license application shall be accompanied by
a nonrefundable application fee.
G. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, an applicant for a Sexually
Oriented Business license must also obtain any other permits or licenses required by
state or local laws or regulations.
H. In addition, an applicant must provide an affirmation attesting to the truth of
what is stated in the application, that the statements are made pursuant to instruction on
an official form, and recite that the statements are made under oath, that the declarant
was aware at the time of making the statements of such recitation, and intended the
statements should be represented as a sworn statement made under penalty of perjury,
and with a signed jurat of an officer authorized to administer oaths. .
5.10.090 Application for manager's or entertainer's license
.
A. No person shall work or perform as a manager, entertainer, escort, or nude or
semi- nude model at a Sexually Oriented Business facility without a valid manager's or
entertainer's license issued by the Sheriff.
B. All applications shall be submitted to the Sheriff on a form supplied by the
Sheriff and shall contain or be accompanied by all of the following information and
documents:
1. The date of the application.
2. The legal name, any previous names, any aliases, any driver's license
number, any Social Security number, and the date of birth of the applicant.
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3. Documentation that the applicant has attained the age of 18 years. Any of the
following shall be accepted as documentation of age:
a. A valid driver's license issued by any state bearing the applicant's photograph
and date of birth;
b. A valid identification card issued by any state bearing the applicant's
photograph and date of birth;
c. An official passport issued by the United States of America;
d. An immigration card issued by the United States of America; or
e. Any other form of identification that the Sheriff determines to be
acceptable.
4. The height, weight, hair and eye color of the applicant.
5. The present mailing and residential address of the applicant.
6. The name and address of the Sexually Oriented Business facility at which the
applicant will work or perform.
7. A description of the principal activities or services to be rendered by the
applicant at the Sexually Oriented Business facility.
8. Two two-inch by two-inch color photographs of the applicant, taken within six
months of the date of the application, showing the full face of the applicant.
The photographs shall be provided at the expense of the applicant.
9. A complete set of fingerprints of the applicant, taken by a designated county
official, on a form adopted and approved by the Jefferson County Sheriff's
Office department.
10. A statement whether the applicant has been convicted of a specified criminal
offense, and if so, the date, place, and jurisdiction of each specified criminal
offense.
11. A statement whether the applicant holds any license issued under this
chapter or under a similar ordinance from another city or county, and if so, the
operating names and locations of the other licensed businesses.
12. A statement whether the applicant has had a previous license issued under
this chapter denied, suspended, or revoked, and if so, the name and location
of the Sexually Oriented Business facility for which the license was denied,
suspended, or revoked, as well as the date of the denial, suspension, or
revocation.
13. Authorization for the county, its agents, and employees to seek information to
confirm any statements or other information set forth in the application.
C. The applicant shall verify under penalty of perjury that the information
contained in the application is true to the best of his or her knowledge.
D. An application shall be deemed complete upon receipt of all the information
and documents requested by this section. Where necessary to determine compliance
with this chapter, the Sheriff may request information or clarification in addition to that
provided in a complete application.
E. Each manager's and entertainer's license application shall be accompanied by
a nonrefundable application fee.
F. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, an applicant for a manager's or
entertainer's license must also obtain any other permits or licenses required by state or
11
local laws or regulations. .
5.10.100 Initial investigation.
A. Upon receipt of a complete Sexually Oriented business license application, the
Sheriff shall stamp the application as received and shall send photocopies of the
application to the departments or agencies responsible for the enforcement of public
safety, Sheriff's Office, health, fire, and building codes and laws. Each interested
department or agency shall conduct an investigation of the application and the proposed
Sexually Oriented Business facility within 20 calendar days of receipt of the application
by the Sheriff, unless circumstances support extending the investigation. If the
investigation is extended, the Sheriff shall inform the applicant of the extension and the
reasons therefor. The extension shall not exceed 10 additional calendar days from the
original expiration of the 20-day time period stated above. At the conclusion of its
investigation, each interested department or agency shall recommend approval or
disapproval of the application by so indicating on the photocopy of the application. After
indicating its approval or disapproval, each interested department or agency shall
immediately return the photocopy of the application to the Sheriff. In the event the
proposed Sexually Oriented Business facility is in a state of construction at the time of
the inspection, then each interested department or agency shall make a preliminary
determination of approval or disapproval based on the drawings submitted in the
application. Any Sexually Oriented business license approved prior to final construction
of the Sexually Oriented Business facility shall contain a condition that the Sexually
Oriented Business facility shall not open for business until the facility has been
inspected and determined to be in compliance with applicable laws and regulations and
substantially conforms with the drawings submitted with the application.
B. In the event an interested department or agency recommends disapproval, the
department or agency recommending disapproval shall state the basis for the
disapproval in writing. A department or agency shall recommend disapproval of an
application if it finds that the proposed Sexually Oriented Business facility will violate
any provision of any statute, code, ordinance, regulation, or other law in effect in the
county. .
5.10.110 Issuance and denial of licenses.
A. Issuance of Sexually Oriented Business License.
1. The Sheriff shall grant or deny an application for a Sexually Oriented
business license within 35 calendar days from the date a complete application
is filed unless a 10-day extension is granted as provided in JCC 5.10.100(A),
in which case the Sheriff shall grant or deny an application for a Sexually
Oriented business license within 45 calendar days from the date a complete
application is filed.
2. The Sheriff shall issue a Sexually Oriented Business license unless one or
more of the criteria set forth in subsection (C)(1) of this section is present.
3. A Sexually Oriented Business license, if granted, shall state on its face the
name of the person or persons to whom it is granted, the expiration date, and
the name and address of the Sexually Oriented Business facility. A Sexually
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Oriented Business license shall be posted in a conspicuous place, at or near
the entrance to the Sexually Oriented Business facility.
4. Each Sexually Oriented Business license shall expire annually on December
31st.
B. Issuance of Manager's or Entertainer's License.
1. The Sheriff shall grant or deny an application for a manager's or
entertainer's license within 35 calendar days from the date a complete
application is filed.
2. An applicant for a manager's or entertainer's license shall be issued a
temporary license upon receipt of a complete license application and fee. Said
temporary license shall automatically expire on the fifteenth day following the
filing of a complete application and fee, unless the Sheriff has failed to approve
or deny the license application, in which case the temporary license shall be
valid until the Sheriff approves or denies the application, or until the final
determination of any appeal from a denial of the application. In no event may
the Sheriff extend the application review time for more than an additional 20
days.
3. The Sheriff shall issue a manager's or entertainer's license unless one
or more of the criteria set forth in subsection (C)(1) of this section is present.
4. A manager's or entertainer's license, if granted, shall state on its face the
name of the person to whom it is granted, the expiration date, and the name
and address of the Sexually Oriented Business facility at which the manager,
entertainer, escort or nude or semi-nude model will work or perform. Each
manager, entertainer, and nude or semi-nude model shall ensure that his or
her license is posted in a conspicuous place, at or near the entrance to the
Sexually Oriented Business facility, at all times he or she is working or
performing in the Sexually Oriented Business facility. Each escort shall carry
his or her license at all times he or she is working within Jefferson County as
an escort.
5. Each manager's or entertainer's license shall expire annually on December
31st.
C. Denial of License Application.
1. The Sheriff shall deny any license application if it is demonstrated by a
preponderance of the evidence that one or more of the following findings is
true:
a. The premises to be used for the proposed Sexually Oriented Business facility
are not in compliance with applicable laws and ordinances.
b. An applicant is under 18 years of age.
c. An applicant has failed to provide information required by this chapter or has
falsely answered a question or request for information on the application form.
d. An applicant has failed to comply with any provision or requirement of this
chapter.
e. An application fee required by this chapter has not been paid.
f. An applicant has been convicted of a specified criminal offense committed on
the premises of the Sexually Oriented Business facility for which he or she is
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licensed within the time periods provided in JCC 5.10.030(“Specified Criminal
Offense”).
2. In the event the Sheriff denies an application, the Sheriff shall do so in writing
and shall state the specific reasons therefore, including applicable laws.
3. Denial of a license application is subject to appeal as set forth in JCC
5.10.150. .
5.10.120 Renewal of licenses
.
A. A licensee may apply for renewal of a Sexually Oriented business license
issued under this chapter. An application for renewal shall contain the information and
documents required in JCC 5.10.080 and shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable
application fee.
B. A licensee may apply for renewal of a manager's or entertainer's license
issued under this chapter. An application for renewal shall contain the information and
documents required in JCC 5.10.090 and shall be accompanied by a nonrefundable
application fee.
C. Application for renewal of a Sexually Oriented business license shall be made
within 40 calendar days before the expiration date of the currently valid license.
D. Application for renewal of a manager's or entertainer's license shall be made
within 15 calendar days before the expiration date of the currently valid license.
E. An application for a Sexually Oriented Business, manager's or entertainer's
license renewal shall be issued or denied according to the requirements of JCC
5.10.110.
F. Denial of a Sexually Oriented Business, manager's or entertainer's license
renewal application is subject to appeal as set forth in JCC 5.10.150.
G. In the event that the Sheriff denies an application for a Sexually Oriented
Business, manager's or entertainer's license renewal, the applicant may not be issued a
license for one year from the date of denial. Provided, that if, after a denial, the Sheriff
finds that the basis for the denial has been corrected or abated, the applicant may be
granted a license if at least 90 calendar days have elapsed since the date of denial. .
5.10.130 Nontransferability of licenses.
A. Sexually Oriented Business License. The holder of a Sexually Oriented
business license issued pursuant to this chapter shall not assign or transfer the license
to another person, except that a transfer may be made to the surviving spouse of a
deceased licensee if the transferor and transferee were maintaining a marital
community and the license was issued in the name of one or both of them.
B. Manager's or Entertainer's License. The holder of a manager's or entertainer's
license issued pursuant to this chapter shall not assign or transfer the license to another
person. .
5.10.140 Suspension and revocation of licenses.
A. The Sheriff may, subject to this chapter, suspend or revoke any license
14
issued pursuant to this chapter. In the event a license is suspended or revoked, all
rights of the licensee under this chapter are then suspended or terminated, as the case
may be.
B. Upon receipt of notice of the suspension or revocation of a Sexually Oriented
Business license or manager's license or entertainer's license, the licensee shall without
delay deliver such license to the Sheriff. In the case of a suspension, the Sheriff shall
return the license to the licensee at the expiration of the suspension period.
C. Suspension of License. The Sheriff shall suspend a license for a period not to
exceed 30 calendar days if the Sheriff determines that:
1. The licensee has been convicted of a specified criminal offense committed on
the premises of the Sexually Oriented Business facility for which he or she is
licensed within the time periods provided in JCC 5.10.030(“Specified Criminal
Offense”); or
2. The licensee has violated any applicable requirement of this chapter.
3. The licensee has refused to allow an inspection of the Sexually Oriented
Business facility as required by JCC 5.10.160; or
4. The licensee has not submitted a timely monthly report as required by JCC
5.10.170(8); or
D. Revocation of License.
1. The Sheriff shall revoke a license if the Sheriff determines that:
a. The licensee has given false information in the material submitted during the
application process; or
b. The licensee has knowingly operated a Sexually Oriented Business facility
during a period of time when the Sexually Oriented business license of the
Sexually Oriented Business facility was suspended; or
c. The licensee has knowingly acted as a manager of a Sexually Oriented
Business facility during a period of time when the licensee's manager's license
was suspended; or
d. The licensee has knowingly acted as an entertainer at a Sexually Oriented
Business facility during a period of time when the licensee's entertainer's
license was suspended; or
e. The licensee has knowingly acted as an escort within the Jefferson County
during a period of time when the licensee's entertainer's license was
suspended; or
f. The licensee has knowingly acted as a nude or semi-nude model at a Sexually
Oriented Business facility during a period of time when the licensee's
entertainer's license was suspended; or
g. A cause of suspension in subsection (C) of this section occurs and the license
has been suspended within the preceding 12 months.
2. In the event the Sheriff revokes a license, the revocation shall continue
for one year, and the licensee shall not be issued a Sexually Oriented
Business license, manager's license, or entertainer's license for one year from
the date the revocation becomes effective. If, after revocation, the Sheriff finds
that the basis for the revocation has been corrected or abated, the applicant
15
may be granted a license if at least 90 calendar days have elapsed since the
date of revocation became effective. .
5.10.150 Appeal of denial, suspension, or revocation of license.
A. In the event the Sheriff denies, suspends or revokes a license issued under
this chapter, the Sheriff shall notify the applicant or licensee in writing of the decision at
least 10 calendar days prior to the effective date of any such denial, suspension, or
revocation, unless said suspension occurs pursuant to JCC 5.10.160B, in which case
the suspension shall be effective immediately. The notice shall describe the grounds for
such denial, suspension, or revocation and shall inform the applicant or licensee of his
or her right to appeal to the County hearing examiner within 10 calendar days of the
date of the written decision by filing a written notice of appeal with the Sheriff containing
a statement of the specific reasons for the appeal and a statement of the relief
requested. The notice shall be served either in person or by mailing a copy of the
notice by certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, to the applicant or
licensee at his or her last known address.
B. If a licensee timely appeals a decision of the Sheriff, then the licensee may
continue to engage in the activity for which the license was issued pending the decision
of the county hearing examiner, unless the license was suspended or revoked based on
a threat of immediate serious injury to public health or safety pursuant to JCC
5.10.160(8).
C. Within 10 calendar days of receiving a timely appeal, the Sheriff shall forward
the administrative record of the licensing decision to the county hearing examiner.
D. In the event an applicant or licensee timely appeals the denial, suspension, or
revocation of a license issued under this chapter, the county hearing examiner shall
hold a hearing on the appeal within 20 calendar days from receipt of the appeal. Written
notice of the date, time, and place of the scheduled hearing shall be given to the
applicant by the Sheriff at least five calendar days prior to the hearing.
E. The county hearing examiner shall uphold the decision of the Sheriff unless it
finds the decision is not supported by evidence in the administrative record.
F. The county hearing examiner shall issue a written decision within 10 calendar
days of hearing the appeal. The decision shall be served either in person or by mailing a
copy of the decision by certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested, to the
applicant or licensee at his or her last known address. The decision of the county
hearing examiner shall constitute the final administrative decision of the county and may
be appealed to superior court within 10 calendar days. The applicant or licensee shall
be responsible for the costs of preparing the administrative record for judicial review.
G. If a licensee timely appeals a decision of the county hearing examiner, then
the licensee may continue to engage in the activity for which the license was issued
pending the decision of the court, unless the license was suspended or revoked based
on a threat of immediate serious injury to public health or safety. .
5.10.160 Inspections and public health and safety suspensions
.
A. An applicant or licensee shall permit representatives of the Sheriff's Office
16
department, health department, and other state and local government agencies to
inspect the premises of a Sexually Oriented Business facility, at any time the Sexually
Oriented Business facility is open for business, for the purpose of ensuring compliance
with all applicable statutes, codes, ordinances, regulations, and laws.
B. Where a condition exists upon the premises of a Sexually Oriented Business
facility that constitutes a threat of immediate serious injury to public health or safety, the
Sheriff or any other county official may immediately suspend any license issued under
this chapter by issuing a notice setting forth the facts that constitute a threat of
immediate serious injury to public health or safety, and informing the licensee of the
right to appeal the suspension to the county hearing examiner under the appeal
provisions set forth in this chapter. .
5.10.170 Recordkeeping requirements and monthly reports
.
A. Each Sexually Oriented Business facility licensed under this chapter shall
maintain and retain, for a period of two years from the date of termination of
employment, the names, addresses, and ages of all persons employed or otherwise
retained as managers, entertainers, escorts, and nude and semi-nude models.
B. Each Sexually Oriented Business facility licensed under this chapter shall file
a monthly report with the Sheriff including the names, addresses, and ages of all
persons employed or otherwise retained as managers, entertainers, escorts, and nude
or semi-nude models. .
5.10.180 License requirement for existing Sexually Oriented Business facilities
.
Any Sexually Oriented Business facility in existence prior to the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this chapter shall be deemed to be operating under a temporary
Sexually Oriented business license. Within 45 calendar days of the effective date of the
ordinance codified in this chapter, each owner and operator of the Sexually Oriented
Business facility shall submit a complete Sexually Oriented business license application
pursuant to JCC 5.10.080 to the Sheriff. The license application shall be issued or
denied in accordance with the requirements of this chapter. The Sexually Oriented
Business facility shall be permitted to continue to engage in the activities specified in the
Sexually Oriented business license application pursuant to JCC 5.10.080(C)(6) pending
the decision of the Sheriff. .
Article III. Operational Requirements
5.10.190 Regulations applicable to all Sexually Oriented Business facilities.
All Sexually Oriented Business facilities shall comply with the following regulations:
A. Manager on Premises. A licensed manager shall be on duty at the Sexually
Oriented Business facility at all times the Sexually Oriented Business facility is open for
business. The manager shall be stationed at a location within the Sexually Oriented
Business facility where he or she shall have an unobstructed view of all public portions
of the Sexually Oriented Business facility.
17
B. Hours of Operation. It is unlawful for a Sexually Oriented Business facility,
except Sexually Oriented motel, to be conducted, operated, or otherwise open to the
public between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.
C. Admission to Minors Prohibited. Admission to Sexually Oriented Business
facilities, except Sexually Oriented motels, shall be restricted to persons of the age of
18 years or more. The age of all patrons shall be verified at the time of entry by an
employee of the Sexually Oriented Business facility.
D. Warning Devices. No person may operate or maintain any warning system or
device, of any nature or kind, for the purpose of warning the employees, managers,
entertainers, or patrons of a Sexually Oriented Business facility that Sheriff's Office
Deputies or other government agents are approaching or have entered the Sexually
Oriented Business facility.
E. Rental or Sale of Obscene Material Prohibited. The rental or sale of obscene
material, as defined in RCW 7.48.050 (Moral Nuisances), shall be considered a moral
nuisance and may, in addition to any other legal remedy, be subject to abatement
pursuant to this chapter and Chapter 7.48 RCW. .
5.10.200 Regulations specifically applicable to Sexually Oriented cabarets.
A. General. A Sexually Oriented cabaret shall satisfy the general requirements in
Article I of this chapter, the licensing requirements in Article II of this chapter, the
general operational requirements in JCC 5.10.190, and the specific operational
requirements applicable to Sexually Oriented cabarets contained in this section.
B. Separation of Entertainers From Patrons. No entertainer shall appear nude or
semi- nude except on a stage or platform at least 24 inches in elevation above the level
of the patron seating areas. The stage shall be separated by a distance of at least 10
feet from all areas of the premises to which patrons have access. A continuous fixed-
barrier railing, of sufficient construction to prevent encroachment by patrons onto the
stage, at least three feet in height and located at least six feet from all points of the
stage, shall separate the stage from all patron areas.
C. Managers. The licensed manager on duty shall not be an entertainer. There
shall be one manager on duty for every stage operating on the premises. No manager
shall knowingly permit an employee or entertainer to violate any provision of this
section.
D. Tips. No entertainer shall solicit, accept, or receive government issued
currency offered by any patron. This prohibition shall apply at all times that a licensed
entertainer is employed by the Sexually Oriented Business facility at which he or she
provides Sexually Oriented Business, regardless of whether the entertainer is currently
providing Sexually Oriented Business.
E. Maintenance. All public areas shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary
condition.
F. Lighting. A minimum lighting level of 30 lux semi-cylindrical measured at 30
inches from the floor or 10-foot centers shall be provided and equally distributed in and
about the public portions of the Sexually Oriented cabaret, including the patron seating
areas, so that all objects and patrons are plainly visible at all times.
18
G. Physical Layout. The entire stage and the interior portion of any cubicles,
booths and stalls accessible to patrons, with the exception of restrooms, shall be visible
at all times from the patron seating area of the Sexually Oriented cabaret. Such visibility
shall not be blocked or otherwise obscured by doors, curtains, drapes or any other
device.
H. Visibility From Outside the Sexually Oriented Cabaret. No activity or
entertainment occurring at or in an Sexually Oriented cabaret, nor any photograph,
drawing, sketch or other pictorial or graphic representation of any specified sexual
activities or specified anatomical areas, shall be visible at any time from outside the
Sexually Oriented cabaret.
I. Prohibited Activities.
1. No manager, entertainer or employee shall. be permitted to caress, fondle, or
erotically touch any patron. No manager, entertainer or employee shall
encourage or permit any patron to caress, fondle, or erotically touch any
employee or entertainer.
2. No manager, entertainer or employee shall perform or simulate any specified
sexual activities, nor perform or simulate any act that constitutes a moral
nuisance as defined in RCW 7.48.050 and 7.48A.010.
3. No manager, entertainer or employee shall expose to view any specified
anatomical areas except upon a stage or platform as set forth in subsection
(B) of this section.
4. Any specified criminal offense as defined herein.
J. Sign. A sign at least two feet by two feet, with letters at least one inch high,
shall be conspicuously and permanently posted at or near the entrance to the Sexually
Oriented cabaret which states the following:
THIS SEXUALLY ORIENTED CABARET IS REGULATED BY JEFFERSON COUNTY.
ENTERTAINERS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO ENGAGE IN ANY TYPE OF SEXUAL
ACTIVITY AND ARE NOT PERMITTED TO APPEAR NUDE OR SEMI-NUDE EXCEPT
ON STAGE. ENTERTAINERS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO SOLICIT, ACCEPT, OR
RECEIVE ANY GOVERNMENT ISSUED CURRENCY. PATRONS ARE NOT
PERMITTED TO ENGAGE IN ANY TYPE OF SEXUAL ACTIVITY AND ARE NOT
PERMITTED TO APPEAR NUDE OR SEMI-NUDE.
.
5.10.210 Regulations specifically applicable to Sexually Oriented Arcades.
A. General. A Sexually Oriented Arcade shall satisfy the general requirements in
Article I of this chapter, the licensing requirements in Article II of this chapter, the
general operational requirements in JCC 5.10.190, and the specific operational
requirements applicable to Sexually Oriented Arcades contained in this section.
B. Physical Layout.
1. Each viewing booth shall be visible from a manager's station and shall not be
19
obscured by any curtain, door, wall or other enclosure. As used in this section
"viewing booth" means the area where a patron or customer would be
positioned while watching a film, video or other photographic reproduction.
2. No steps or risers shall be allowed in any viewing booth.
3. No viewing booth shall have more than one stool or seat. In order to prevent
obscuring the occupant of a viewing booth from view, no stool for seating
within a viewing booth shall have any seat back or sides.
4. No viewing booth shall have any holes or openings in its walls other than
ventilation holes. All ventilation holes shall be located one foot from the top of
the booth walls or one foot from the bottom of the booth walls. All ventilation
holes shall be covered with a permanently affixed ventilation cover.
C. Maintenance. All viewing booths shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary
condition.
D. Lighting. A minimum lighting level of 30 lux semi-cylindrical measured at 30
inches from the floor or 10-foot centers shall be provided and equally distributed in and
about the public portions of the Sexually Oriented Arcade, including the viewing booths,
so that all objects are plainly visible at all times.
E. Limit on Number of Persons Within a Viewing Booth. No licensee, manager or
employee shall knowingly permit more than one person to occupy a viewing booth at
any given time.
F. Prohibited Activities. No licensee, manager, or employee shall knowingly
permit a patron to perform any specified sexual activities within a viewing booth.
G. Sign. A sign at least two feet by two feet, with letters at least one inch high,
shall be conspicuously and permanently posted at or near the entrance to the Sexually
Oriented Arcade which states the following:
THIS SEXUALLY ORIENTED ARCADE IS REGULATED BY JEFFERSON COUNTY.
IT IS UNLAWFUL TO PERFORM SEXUAL ACTS WITHIN A VIEWING BOOTH, AND
IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR MORE THAN ONE PERSON TO OCCUPY A VIEWING
BOOTH AT ANY GIVEN TIME. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO CRIMINAL
PROSECUTION.
H. Visibility From Outside the Sexually Oriented Arcade. No activity or
entertainment occurring at or in an Sexually Oriented Arcade, nor any photograph,
drawing, sketch or other pictorial or graphic representation of any specified sexual
activities or specified anatomical areas, shall be visible at any time from outside the
Sexually Oriented Arcade.
20