Governor Kim Reynolds signed into law House File 2602, creating statewide licensing requirements for massage therapy establishments. This is separate from your professional license. Under this law, some massage businesses must now hold an establishment license to operate. Not everyone will need one, so it’s important to understand how this may apply to your practice.
Exceptions to the Rule
“Establishment” means a location where massage therapy is practiced, but there are important exceptions. The following are not considered establishments and do not require a license:
- A location where a sole practitioner practices massage therapy
- Out-call services (massage provided at a client’s location)
- Stand-alone devices operated by the client, such as chairs
- A student clinic operated by a massage therapy school
If you practice solo, you may not need an establishment license. A “sole practitioner” is defined as a massage therapist who:
- Has full control over their practice location
- Is the only person providing massage services at that location
Inspections
The Iowa Board of Massage Therapy (Board) may conduct a sanitary inspection before issuing an establishment license and can inspect businesses every two years or in response to a complaint.
Fingerprints
Establishment owners must submit fingerprints for a national criminal history background check. If an owner has previously submitted fingerprints, the Board may waive this requirement.
Recordkeeping
Establishments must maintain records for at least three years, including:
- The name and license number of each massage therapist working at the business
- Appointment schedules, client receipts, and the name of the LMT who provided each service
What Comes Next
The Board will create rules in the coming months, including:
- Establishment application forms and fees
- Establishment sanitation guidelines and expectations
- Building, fire, and health code compliance protocols
- Recordkeeping requirements
- Establishment license transfer processes
We’ll let you know what the rules require once they are made permanent.
Key Dates
- July 1, 2026: Law takes effect; rulemaking begins
- January 1, 2027: Establishment licensing requirement takes effect
Before You Go: The Purpose Behind the Bill
The law was designed to strengthen oversight of massage therapy businesses and create a clear framework for how establishments operate in Iowa. By developing consistent standards, the legislature aims to support public safety while reinforcing massage therapy professionalism across the state.