SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE (SPF)Required to operate

Notification to Police of Exempted Massage Establishment [MEAPL002]

The Notification to Police of Exempted Massage Establishment is required by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) for premises providing massage services under specific conditions. Validity is not applicable, and processing typically takes 1 week.

Validity
Not applicable
Processing time
1 Week
Issuing authority
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE (SPF)

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Who needs the Notification to Police of Exempted Massage Establishment [MEAPL002]

This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:

What's involved in getting the Notification to Police of Exempted Massage Establishment [MEAPL002]

The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.

What this licence allows the business to do

This notification allows a massage establishment to operate under the exemptions outlined in the Massage Establishments (Exemption) Order 2018. It enables the business to provide massage services without being subject to the full provisions of the Massage Establishments Act, provided certain conditions are met.

What must be in place before the licence can be granted

Before the notification can be accepted, the premises must meet specific criteria:

  • All areas where massage services are provided must be visible to the public from both inside and outside the premises.
  • There should be no obscured windows or entrances, such as tinted glass or curtains.
  • The layout must not include any rooms, partitions, or cubicles that allow for private massage services.
  • Services can only be offered between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m., unless an extension is granted by the Licensing Officer.
  • The business must notify the Licensing Officer of the establishment's name and address prior to commencing operations.

How the agency reviews and decides

The Singapore Police Force reviews the notification to ensure compliance with the specified conditions. This may involve an assessment of the premises to verify that all visibility and layout requirements are met. The agency may also consider any additional information provided by the business regarding its operations.

Common reasons applications stall

Common issues that can lead to delays or rejections include:

  • Failure to meet visibility requirements, such as having obscured windows or entrances.
  • Inadequate layout that includes private areas for massage services.
  • Not adhering to the specified operating hours.
  • Incomplete notification details, such as missing the establishment's name or address. Ensuring compliance with these conditions before submission can help avoid potential setbacks.

Notification to Police of Exempted Massage Establishment [MEAPL002] FAQ

Do I need this licence to start operating?

Yes, if your massage establishment meets the criteria for exemption under the Massage Establishments (Exemption) Order 2018, you must notify the Singapore Police Force before commencing operations.

What can my business do once licensed?

Once the notification is granted, your establishment can legally provide massage services under the specified conditions, such as maintaining visibility and adhering to operational hours.

What happens if I operate without it?

Operating without the required notification can lead to enforcement actions by the Singapore Police Force, including fines or closure of the establishment.

What's the most common reason applications get rejected?

The most common reason for rejection is failing to meet the visibility requirements, such as having obscured entrances or windows, or having private areas for massage services.

Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?

Yes, a foreign-owned company can hold this notification, provided it meets all the necessary conditions outlined in the Massage Establishments (Exemption) Order 2018.

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