Los Banos City Council looks at changing its ordinances for massage parlors

LOS BANOS, Calif. (KFSN) -- The City of Los Banos could get stronger regulations on how massage parlors are operated.

This comes after two massage parlors were shut down in January for suspicion of prostitution and code violation.

"They were becoming a breeding ground for unlawful behavior. We were seeing some of these establishments with a provocative advertisement that was very suggestive," said Los Banos Economic Development Director Stacy Souza.

She says their policies are outdated, and these new regulations would specifically target new massage parlors opening their doors within city limits.

The new policy would require that massage parlors not be open 24 hours. Employees would also be required to be certified and provide their identifications.

"This is a much more improved policy and it really does preserve and protect the citizens of Los Banos. Its preserves their health, safety, and welfare," said Souza Elms.

Along with suspicions of prostitution, officers say they also found drugs at one of the massage businesses.

Chief Gary Brizee says that these new rules would also allow code enforcement officers to conduct surprise checks.

"We are able to conduct inspections and take appropriate enforcement action in the case that these businesses decide to conduct illegal activity," said Brizee.

Officers say the goal is to make sure people are conducting their businesses legally while deterring crime.

"Take enforcement action when we can, but also not be too intrusive into the business person's dealings and day to day operations that we make it difficult for them to conduct business in Los Banos," said Brizee.