Apply to perform massage without a fixed location

Get an Outcall Massage Permit to massage clients at different locations.

What to do

1. Make sure you have a license to practice massage

All massage practitioners need a CAMTC Massage Therapist License from the California Massage Therapy Council to work in San Francisco.

2. Register your massage business

Contact the Treasurer and Tax Collector to open a Business Registration account for your massage business.

3. Complete the permit application

4. Pay the application fee

Check the fee schedule for the exact amount. Write a check, cashier’s check, or money order to “San Francisco Department of Public Health”.

5. Submit your documents and fee

Mail your application and fee to:

SFDPH - EHB (Massage Program)
49 South Van Ness Avenue, Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103

You can also pay with a credit card in person at the Permit Center:
49 South Van Ness Avenue, 2nd floor
Station # 83

6. Submit a background check form and fee

If you have a Massage Therapist License from the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) you do not need to complete this background check.

If you do not have a Massage Therapist License from CAMTC, you need to complete the background check and clearance form. You will also need to pay a fee. Email sfpdpermits@sfgov.org or call 415-553-1115 to ask about the fee.

Email the form to sfpdpermits@sfgov.org. The Police Department will contact you to schedule an appointment to get finger printed and take next steps. You will need to pay the fee in person.

The background check is valid for 3 months.

7. Pay the license fee

Check the fee schedule for the exact amount. Permits are valid for 1 year. You must pay your license fee each year to keep your permit valid.

If you need to change your mailing address, fill out the Change of Address Form and send it to EHmassage@sfdph.org.

Special cases

If you have a professional license

If you have a professional license

You do not need a permit if you are licensed in California in one of these professions:

  • Physician
  • Surgeon
  • Chiropractor
  • Osteopath
  • Nurse
  • Physical therapist

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Last updated February 29, 2024