Body Works | Licensing & Permit Process
A body works establishment is a business that provides acupressure, reflexology or other practices that involve using one's hand to apply pressure on an individual's fully clothed body, or bare feet, to affect the electromagnetic energy, energetic field or energy meridians of the human body.
For assistance with services, email HHSMai l@montgomerycountymd.gov
What is a Bodyworks establishment?
A bodyworks establishment is a business that provides acupressure, reflexology or other practices that involve using one's hand to apply pressure on an individual's fully clothed body, or bare feet, to affect the electromagnetic energy, energetic field or energy meridians of the human body.
Who must apply for a Bodyworks Establishment License?
As required by Montgomery County Code 24-11; any person, partnership or corporation that operates an establishment that advertises bodywork services or where any employee, agent or contractor performs bodywork on an individual, must obtain a Bodyworks Establishment license. Bodyworks includes the practice of reflexology and acupressure.
How does one obtain a Bodyworks Establishment License? Is there a fee?
Applications and information on the required attachments:
See the Montgomery County 2022 Fee schedule to determine the appropriate Bodyworks fee.
What is the process for applying for a Bodyworks establishment Liscense Application?
- Submit a completed Bodyworks Establishment License Application (PDF) and the attach the required fee.
- A Use and Occupancy Permit or receipt of submittal for a Use and Occupancy permit must be submitted with application.
- Use and Occupancy permits are obtained from the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services, 2425 Reedie Drive, Wheaton, MD 20850 (240-777-0311). If an establishment is a private residence and will have more than one client per day or ten clients per week, there is a requirement to obtain a Low-impact Residential Use and Occupancy Permit through the Department of Permitting Services.
- A copy of the most recent fire inspection also must be submitted with the inspection. Fire Inspection Applications are available from the Department of Permitting Services.
- Applicants must also have fingerprinting and a criminal background check performed by All American Protection Services, LLC. To find the nearest fingerprinting location visit the American Identity Solutions website .
- If you are leasing the property, you will need the approval of the property wwner. Please complete the Owner Authorization Form .
Body Works Process Guide
1. Apply Online
| Body Works Permits | Format |
|---|---|
| Body Works Operating License Application | Online, |
| Owner Authorization to Operate a Body Works Establishment |
2. Review
- Have a Plan: to ensure we can process your application properly - you must have a plan. Describe plan type.
- Review: be sure to double check all of your paperwork to ensure faster processing time.
- Submit online: We now offer an easy online form powered by Seamless Docs - (Seamless Docs sign up and documentation). We provide online applications to decrease the use of paper and our impact on the environment. PDF applications should be mailed to Licensure & Regulatory Services office (2425 Reedie Drive, 9th floor, Wheaton, MD 20902) or faxed to 240-777-3088.
3. Approval
If approved you will hear back us within 10 - 14 business days. The final part of the process will be to find the inspector specific to your area.
- 240-777-3986
Helpful Bodyworks Resources
Department of Permitting Services Use & Occupency Certificate
Fire Permit per Jursidiction:
Montgomery County Chapter 24 Bodywork Establishments Code
State of Maryland all American Protection Services Fingerprinting Solutions