Burlesque Laws in NYC

[vinfiore1986]

I'm looking to start a pop up gentleman’s club concept in the New York City (NYC) area. In summary, it would be an exclusive, members only, strip club that would change locations every night. I need to understand more about the burlesque laws in NYC. Do I need any special licenses? What are the legal “gotchas” that I need to watch out for? I want this to be just as legal and compliant as any other gentlemen’s club in NYC. By the way, this is a legitimate request for information and not a joke. Many thanks.

 

[FlyingRon]

I suspect the "burlesque" issues aren't anything compared to the NYC liquor/hospitality laws. You'll need an attorney to navigate the licensure. Even in the outerboroughs the lawyer will be the least of your costs.

 

[LeeHarveyBlotto]

Huh Huh, you said "pop up".

 

[quincy]

I'm looking to start a pop up gentleman’s club concept in the New York City (NYC) area. In summary, it would be an exclusive, members only, strip club that would change locations every night. I need to understand more about the burlesque laws in NYC. Do I need any special licenses? What are the legal “gotchas” that I need to watch out for? I want this to be just as legal and compliant as any other gentlemen’s club in NYC. By the way, this is a legitimate request for information and not a joke. Many thanks.

The actual licensing for burlesque clubs is not all that costly but you are bound to have problems with the nightly location change (as well as liquor licensing). I agree with FlyingRon that you will need to sit down with an attorney in your area to personally discuss all of the many legal issues that complicate your proposed concept for a gentleman's club.

Despite your claim that your request is a legitimate one and not a joke, I think LeeHarveyBlotto nicely pointed out that the way you worded your post is funny.

 

[FlyingRon]

As I said, the problem is with the liquor license. I presume you are either going to sell alcohol or allow it to be consumed. Either way, you'll need a license. NY has rather arcane licensing laws based not only on what alcohol you are selling but what entertainment you are offering. I used to have a friend who ran a bar in the village, he could only have, if I could remember it correctly, three performers at any given time.

 

[quincy]

As I said, the problem is with the liquor license ...

Well, one of MANY possible problems. The traveling nature of the burlesque show is problematic, as well. The licenses he will want do not travel well.

 

[single317dad]

These already exist in pretty much every large city as a limo service. The service offered amounts to no more than an "adult entertainment party" on wheels. The markets are pretty saturated though.

NYC is close to the ocean though -- just a thought, though I'm sure a few have beaten me to it.