Sexually Oriented Business, Enterprise Permit
Permit allows an owner and/or operator to conduct activities in a building or facility for the benefit of the public or any group member involving enterprise such as an adult: bookstore, cabaret, encounter parlor, lounge, modeling studio, movie theatre or establishment to provide sexual stimulation or gratification.
The property and building must meet strict regulatory and code compliance.
Inspections are required on each annual application.
Renewals are required provided still in operation.
- Sexually oriented business enterprise application
- Copy of assumed name certificate from County Clerk
- Proof of land ownership (executed deed) and/or executed lease agreement
- Government-issued photographic identification
- National background check
- Method of payment: cash, check, cashier's check, money order, or debit/credit card
- Bring the completed application, supporting documents and payment to the Houston Permitting Center.
- Obtain a numbered ticket from the Information Desk. Please wait in the lobby until your number is called.
- Once the application has been filed, ARA will direct the applicant to a designated facility for fingerprinting and the background check.
Prior to issuance, the applicant must complete public notification of intent to apply for a permit, post notice of the same on the property, and pass an inspection of the facility and neighborhood conducted by ARA - Commercial Permitting & Enforcement.
Once the previously stated requirements are met, ARA will conduct an inspection of the property within 3 to 10 days and notify the applicant if and when the permit is available to pick up.
At least 20 calendar days before expiration of the current permit, owner/operator must submit a renewal application and pay the renewal fee amount to the City.
- Sexually oriented business renewal application
- Copy of assumed name certificate from County Clerk
- Proof of land ownership (executed deed) and/or executed lease agreement
- Government-issued photographic identification
- National background check
- Method of payment: cash, check, cashier's check, money order, or debit/credit card
- Bring the completed application, supporting documents and payment to the Houston Permitting Center.
- Obtain a numbered ticket from the Information Desk. Please wait in the lobby until your number is called.
- Once the application has been filed, ARA will direct the applicant to a designated facility for fingerprinting and the background check.
Prior to issuance, the applicant must complete public notification of intent to apply for a permit, post notice of the same on the property, and pass an inspection of the facility and neighborhood conducted by ARA - Commercial Permitting & Enforcement.