Spokane Valley City Zoning Code

In the development and adoption of Chapter 19.80 SVMC, the City recognized that there are adult entertainment uses which, due to their very nature, have serious objectionable operational characteristics, particularly when located in close proximity to residential neighborhoods and schools, thereby having a deleterious impact upon the quality of life in the surrounding areas. It has been acknowledged by courts and communities across the nation that state and local governmental entities have a special concern in regulating the operation of such businesses under their jurisdiction to ensure the adverse secondary effects of the establishments are minimized.

Chapter 19.80 SVMC is intended to protect the general public health, safety, and welfare through the regulation of the operations and licensing of the adult entertainment devices, premises, and personnel of adult entertainment establishments. The provisions of Chapter 19.80 SVMC have neither the purpose nor effect of imposing a limitation or restriction on the content of any constitutionally protected, sexually oriented, or explicit communicative materials, or communicative performances. The regulations set forth herein are intended to prevent and control health, safety, and welfare issues, the decline in neighborhood conditions in and around adult entertainment establishments, and to prevent dangerous and unlawful conduct associated with these facilities. Chapter 19.80 SVMC may not be construed as permitting or promoting obscene conduct or materials.

Licensing requirements for adult uses are contained in Chapter 5.10 SVMC, Adult Entertainment Establishments.