HomeMy WebLinkAbout022596 ORD - 06/11/1996AN ORDINANCE
AMENDING THE CODE OF ORDii 4ANCES, CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI,
BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 48, SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESSES;
REQUIRING PERMIT1 ING OF SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESSES;
REGULATING THE LOCATION OF SEXUALLY ORIENTED
BUSINESSES; DEFINING SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESSES,
SPECIFIED ANATOMICAL AREAS AND SPECIFIED SEXUAL
ACTIVITIES; PROHIBITING SPECIFIED SEXUAL ACTIVITIES FOR
CONSIDERATION OR IN A SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS;
PROVIDING 30 DAYS TO SUBMIT INITIAL PERMIT APPLICATION;
REPEALING CHAPTER 28, MASSAGE PARLORS; PROVIDING FOR
PENALTIES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERANCE; AND PROVIDING FOR
PUBLICATION.
WHEREAS, the Texas Legislature has found in Chapter 243 of the Texas Local Government
Code that unrestricted operation of sexually oriented businesses may be detrimental to the public
health, safety, and welfare because they contribute to the decline of residential and business
neighborhoods and the growth of criminal activity; and
WHEREAS, numerous studies documenting the detrimental effects of sexually oriented
businesses have been conducted in other areas, and the City Council has received and considered
studies and summaries of studies from Amarillo, Austin and Houston, Texas; Garden Grove and Los
Angeles, California; Indianapolis, Indiana; Bellevue, Kent and Seattle, Washington; Las Vegas,
Nevada; Phoenix, Arizona; Saint Paul, Minnesota; and the Attorney General of Minnesota; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that said studies from other areas demonstrate that
sexually oriented businesses cause and contribute to deterioration and blight in residential and
commercial areas, reduced property values, and increased crime, especially sex related crimes; that
such effects are compounded when sexually oriented businesses are located in close proximity to one
another; and that said studies are applicable and relevant to present and future problems which need
to be addressed in Corpus Christi; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a public hearing on February 13, 1996; the Planning
Commission of the City held a public hearing on March 6, 1996, and submitted recommendations
to the City Council; the City Council held additional public hearings on March 19, 1996,
April 30, 1996, May 28, 1996, and June 11, 1996 in conjunction with first and second reading of this
ordinance and related zoning ordinance; the City Council has additionally requested and received
written comments and material from the public and interested parties; and the weight of evidence
received demonstrates the negative effects of existing sexually oriented businesses, and that these
effects will be compounded if additional sexually oriented businesses should be located near
residential and commercial areas in the future; and
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WHEREAS, the City Council has rece.ved the recommendation of the City Manager, the
Police Chief, the City Attorney, and the Directq'r nf Planning, that this ordinance should be adopted
to protect against the harmful effects of sexually oriented businesses; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the decisions and findings of the United States
Supreme Court and other courts regarding local regulation of sexually oriented businesses, including
but not limited to Young v. American Mini -Theatres, Inc., 427 U.S. 50 (1976); Renton v. Playtime
Theatres, 475 U.S. 41 (1986); Dumas v. City of Dallas, 648 F.Supp. 1061 (N.D. Tex. 1986),
FW/PBS, Inc. v. City of Dallas, 837 F.2d 1298 (5th Cir. 1988), FW/PBS, Inc. v. Dallas, 493 U.S. 215
(1990); SDJ, Inc. v. City of Houston, 636 F.Supp. 1359 (S.D. Tex. 1986), 837 F.2d 1268 (5th Cir.
1988), cert. den. 489 U.S. 1052; TK's Video, Inc. v. Denton County, Texas, 24 F.3d 705 (5th Cir.
1994); and
WHEREAS, it is the policy of the City of Corpus Christi to maintain and enhance its status
and economic viability as a family-oriented tourist and convention destination particularly in the
downtown area and the Corpus Christi Beach area which contain attractions such as the Texas State
Aquarium, U.S.S. Lexington, Columbus Fleet Ships, marina, museums, art centers, seawall, hotels,
port area, Heritage Park, Convention Center, and hotel accommodations, and sexually oriented
businesses are incompatible with and harmful to such atmosphere and facilities; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that sexually oriented businesses are harmful to children
and young persons, and such businesses should not be located in areas children and young persons
are likely to frequent, and children and young persons should not be allowed to enter such
businesses; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that sexually oriented businesses should not be located
in proximity to residential property, commercial property, tourist areas, churches, parks, and schools,
nor should one sexually oriented business be located in proximity to another; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that requiring that sexually oriented businesses be
located within 1-3 zoning, at least 1,000 feet from residences and residential districts, and 1,500 feet
from one another will protect residential property, commercial property, tourist areas, churches,
parks, and schools, will provide ample alternative sites within the City for sexually oriented
businesses to locate, and is necessary for reasonably efficient and cost-effective administration; and
WHEREAS, regulations in this ordinance regarding uncovered female breasts are based on
legitimate physiological and sexual distinctions, as found in the Legislative Report of the Houston
City Council Committee on the Regulation of Sexually Oriented Businesses, January 1991, at 11-13,
Motion No. 91-0375 of the Houston, Texas City Council; and
WHEREAS, restrictions on signage and exterior portions of sexually oriented businesses
which allow modest, subdued advertising are appropriate in order to prevent a decline in the values
of surrounding properties, to prevent deterioration of neighborhoods, and to reduce attraction to
children and young persons; and
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WHEREAS, it is not the intent of this ordinance to suppress activities protected by the First
Amendment, but, by regulation, to protect against the negative secondary effects of sexually oriented
businesses; and
WHEREAS, based upon the weight of all the studies, testimony, and other information
received, this Ordinance is necessary to protect the public safety, health, and welfare of the City of
Corpus Christi.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI:
SECTION 1. That the findings contained in the preamble are hereby found to be true and
correct and adopted as if set out in full herein.
SECTION 2. That the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Texas is amended by
adding a new Chapter 48, Sexually Oriented Businesses, as follows:
CHAPTER 48
SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESSES
Article I. General
Sec. 48-1 Purpose And Scope
Sec. 48-2 Definitions
Sec. 48-3 Enforcement
Article II. General Operating Regulations
Sec. 48-4 Location Of Sexually Oriented Businesses
Sec. 48-5 Exemption From Location Restrictions
Sec. 48-6 Existing Businesses
Sec. 48-7 On -premise Advertising And Signs
Sec. 48-8 Inspections
Sec. 48-9 Notice
Sec. 48-10 Age Restrictions
Sec. 48-11 Public Health And Education
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Sec. 48-12 Management Of Sexually Oriented Businesses
Article III. Additional Operating Regulations
Sec. 48-13 Adult Arcade/Adult Video Arcade/Adult Movie Arcade
Sec. 48-14 Escort Agencies
Sec. 48-15 Adult Modeling Studios
Sec. 48-16 Adult Motels
Sec. 48-17 Adult Cabarets/Adult Lounges
Article IV. Permits
Sec. 48-18 Permits Required
Sec. 48-19 Permit Application
Sec. 48-20 Term And Renewal Of Permit
Sec. 48-21 Issuance Or Denial Of Permit
Sec. 48-22 Permit Transfers
Sec. 48-23 Revocation of Permit
Sec. 48-24 Appeal
ARTICLE I. GENERAL
Section 48-1. Purpose and Scope
(a) The purpose of this chapter is to regulate sexually oriented businesses to promote the
public health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Corpus Christi, and to establish reasonable and
uniform regulations to prevent the concentration of sexually oriented businesses in the city.
(b) The provisions of this chapter have neither the purpose or effect of imposing a limitation
or restriction on the content of any communicative materials, including sexually oriented materials,
nor is it the intent of this chapter to restrict or deny access by adults to sexually oriented materials
protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, or deny access by the distributors and
exhibitors of sexually oriented entertainment to their intended market.
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(c) The city council finds that the findings and conclusions recited in the preamble to the
ordinance adopting this Chapter are in all things true and correct.
48-2. Definitions. When used in this chapter, the following words and terms shall have the
following meanings ascribed to them unless the context of their usage clearly indicates another
meaning or a more specific definition is introduced in a specific section:
Sexually oriented business. An adult cabaret, adult lounge, nude studio, adult modeling studio, love
parlor, adult bookstore, adult movie theater, adult video arcade, adult movie arcade, adult video
store, adult motel, adult novelty shop, adult arcade, adult encounter parlor, escort agency, or other
commercial enterprise the primary business of which is the regular offering of a service or the
selling, renting, or exhibiting of devices or any other items intended to provide sexual stimulation
or sexual gratification to the customer or which regularly sells, rents or exhibits pictures, whether
motion or still, or sells, rents or exhibits devices or any other items distinguished or characterized
by an emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to "specified sexual activities" or
"specified anatomical areas".
Adult arcade/adult video arcade/adult movie arcade. Any place or establishment containing one
or more arcade devices, or any other establishment which regularly offers still or motion pictures,
video displays, or games, to which the public is invited, wherein coin operated, slug operated or
electronically, electrically, or mechanically operated still or motion picture machines, projectors, or
other image producing devices controlled by the permittee are maintained to show images to five
or fewer persons per machine at any one time and where the images so displayed are distinguished
or characterized by an emphasis on matter intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual
gratification to the customer or which images depict, describe, or relate to "specified sexual
activities" or "specified anatomical areas".
Adult bookstore/adult video store. A commercial establishment which regularly offers for sale or
rents for off -premises use, books, magazines, films or videotapes, periodicals, or other printed or
pictorial materials which are distinguished by or characterized by an emphasis on matter intended
to provide sexual stimulation or sexual gratification to the customer or which depict, describe, or
relate to "specified sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas" and where a substantial or
significant portion of its stock in trade consists of such offerings.
Adult cabaret. A commercial establishment which regularly offers live entertainment which is
distinguished by or characterized by an emphasis on matter, physical displays or entertainment
intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual gratification to the customer or which depicts,
describes, or relates to "specified sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas".
Adult encounter parlor/business. A commercial establishment which regularly provides off -
premise services, on -premise services, or premises where customers either congregate, associate, or
consort with employees and such conduct is intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual
gratification to the customer or where employees engage in "specified sexual activities" or display
"specified anatomical areas" in the presence of such customers.
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Adult lounge. A commercial establishment which regularly offers live entertainment which is
distinguished by or characterized by an emphasis on matter, physical displays or entertainment
intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual gratification to the customer or which matter,
physical displays or entertainment depicts, describes, or relates to "specified sexual activities" or
"specified anatomical areas" and which is a permitted or licensed premise, pursuant to the Texas
Alcoholic Beverage Code, where alcoholic beverages may be served or sold.
Adult modeling studio/nude studio/love parlor. A commercial establishment which regularly
provides models who engage in "specified sexual activities" or display "specified anatomical areas"
or appear "nude or in a state of nudity" while being observed or painted, painted upon, sketched,
drawn, sculptured, photographed, or otherwise depicted.
Adult motel. A hotel, motel or similar commercial establishment which regularly:
(1) offers accommodations to the public for any form of consideration and provides patrons
with closed-circuit television transmissions, films, motion pictures, video cassettes, slides, or other
photographic reproductions which are characterized by the depiction or description of "specified
sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas" and which has a sign visible from the public right-
of-way which advertises the availability of such material;
(2) offers a sleeping room for rent for a period of time that is less than ten (10) hours; or
(3) allows a tenant or occupant of a sleeping room to subrent the room for a period of time
that is less than ten (10) hours.
Adult movie theater. A commercial establishment containing a room with seats facing a screen, or
projection area, which regularly exhibits motion pictures which are distinguished by or characterized
by an emphasis on matter intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual gratification to the
customer or which motion pictures depict, describe, or relate to "specified sexual activities" or
"specified anatomical areas".
Adult novelty shop. A commercial establishment which regularly sells products which are
distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matter intended to provide sexual stimulation or
sexual gratification to the customer or which products depict, describe, or relate to "specified sexual
activities" or "specified anatomical areas".
Applicant. The applicant for a permit shall be all the owners of the business applying for a permit.
Arcade device. Any coin-operated, slug -operated, or electronic, electrical, or mechanical device
controlled by the permittee, that dispenses or effectuates the dispensing of displays, still or motion
pictures, or video displays featuring matter intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual
gratification to the customer or which matter depicts, describes, or relates to "specified sexual
activities" or "specified anatomical areas" and that shows images to five (5) or fewer persons in
exchange for the payment of any consideration.
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Chief of Police. The Chief of Police of the City of Corpus Christi or his designated agent.
Church. A building in which persons regularly assemble for religious worship and which is intended
primarily for purposes connected with such worship or for propagating a particular form of religious
belief.
Conducts business. A person "conducts business" if that person:
(1) operates a cash register, cash drawer or other depository on business premises
where cash funds or records of credit card or other credit transactions generated in any manner by
the operation of the establishment or the activities conducted therein are kept;
(2) displays or takes orders from any person for any merchandise, goods,
entertainment other services offered on the business premises;
(3) delivers or provides to any person any merchandise, goods, entertainment or other
services offered on the business premises;
(4) acts as a door attendant to regulate entry of persons into the business premises;
or
(5) supervises or manages other persons in the performance of any of the foregoing
activities on the business premises.
Customer/patron. Any person who:
(1) is on the premises of a regulated establishment in return for the payment of an
admission fee or any other form of consideration or gratuity;
(2) is on the premises of a regulated establishment and purchases, rents or otherwise
utilizes any merchandise, goods, entertainment or other services offered therein; or
(3) is on the premises of a regulated establishment operating as a private club and is
a member of such club.
Dwelling. A building or portion thereof designed or used for residential occupancy and for which
a Certificate of Occupancy for such use has been issued, including one -family, two-family, or
multiple -family dwellings, but not including boarding and lodging houses, hotels, or tourist courts.
Employee. Any person who conducts business in or renders any service whatsoever to any person
in a regulated establishment or who works in or about such a regulated establishment and who
receives compensation for such service or work from the operator or owner of the regulated
establishment or from the customers therein. The term employee includes an independent contractor.
A person is an employee if that person is an employee of the owner of a regulated establishment and
is at any time on the premises of such regulated establishment whether working or not.
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Entertainment. Any act or performance, such as a play, skit, reading, revue, pantomime, scene,
song, dance, musical rendition or striptease, whether performed by an owner, employee, or customer,
intended to provide sexual stimulation or sexual gratification to a customer. The term
"entertainment" shall also mean an owner, employee, or customer engaging in "specified sexual
activities" or exposing "specified anatomical areas" in the presence a customer.
Escort. A person who for consideration agrees or offers to act as a companion, guide, or date for a
person or persons, and who agrees or offers to privately model lingerie or to privately expose
"specified anatomical areas" or appear "nude or in a state of nudity" for that person or persons or
requests that person or persons to expose "specified anatomical areas" or appear "nude or in a state
of nudity".
Escort agency. A commercial establishment which fumishes, offers to furnish, or advertises to
furnish an escort to a person or persons for a fee, tip, or other consideration.
Individual. A natural person.
Manager. An owner, manager, employee or other individual appointed by the owner to manage,
direct and control the premises and operations of the sexually oriented business. A manager is an
individual principally in charge of a regulated establishment at any time and who is responsible for
the conduct of the business.
Model. Any person who poses to be observed, viewed, sketched, painted, painted upon, sculpted,
drawn, photographed, or otherwise depicted while engaging in "specified sexual activities" or
displaying "specified anatomical areas" or while appearing "nude or in a state of nudity".
Nude or state of nudity. A state of dress that less than completely and opaquely covers:
(1) a live human in full nudity;
(2) human genitals;
(3) a human pubic region or pubic hair;
(4) the crevice of the human buttocks;
(5) portions of the post puberty female breast or breasts below a point beginning
immediately above the top of the areola and continuing downward to the lowest portion of the breast;
or
(6) any combinations of the above.
Owner. The proprietor, if a sole proprietorship; all general partners and all limited partners with
twenty (20) percent or more of the investment in the partnership, if a partnership; or all officers,
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directors, and any persons holding twenty (20) percent or more of the outstanding shares, if a
corporation.
Person. A natural person and those entities defined as "person" in the TEXAS GOVERNMENT
CODE §311.005(2).
Permit. A current, valid permit issued by the Chief of Police pursuant to the terms of this chapter
to the owner of a sexually oriented business.
Premises. A tract of land (lot) occupied by a dwelling or regulated establishment, provided however,
if a building has been physically divided into separate units such that each unit has its own individual
means of ingress or egress to the exterior of the building and which units are offered by lease or
otherwise for separate use and control, then "premises" shall refer to each such separate unit.
Regulated establishment. Any sexually oriented business regulated under the provisions of this
chapter.
Residential district. A farm -rural, residential estate, one -family dwelling, townhouse dwelling,
multiple dwelling, travel trailer park, mobile home park, mobile home subdivision, apartment house,
or apartment -tourist district as defined in the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Corpus Christi.
Specified anatomical areas. A less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals, pubic
region, anus or portions of the post puberty female breast or breasts below a point beginning
immediately above the top of the areola and continuing downward to the lowest portion of the breast,
or human genitals in a state of sexual stimulation or arousal, or covered male genitals in a discernibly
turgid state.
Specified sexual activities. Any of the following:
(1) The fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic region, buttocks,
anus, or female breasts;
(2) Sex acts, actual or simulated, including intercourse, oral copulation, or sodomy;
(3) Masturbation, actual or simulated; or
(4) Excretory functions as part of or in connection with any of the activities set forth
in (I) through (3) above.
Transfer of ownership or control of a sexually oriented business. Means and includes any of
the following:
(1) The sale, lease, or sublease of the business;
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(2) The cumulative transfer of securities which constitute a twenty (20) percent or
more interest in the business, whether by sale, exchange, or other similar means;
(3) The establishment of a trust, gift, or other similar legal device which transfers the
ownership or control of the business, except where the only effect is to change the form of ownership
and not any part of the effective or beneficial ownership or control; or
(4) The transfer by bequest or other operation of law upon the death of the person
possessing ownership or control.
Section 48-3. Enforcement
(a) The provisions of this chapter are remedial and shall, unless otherwise addressed in a
specific section, be construed to apply to all sexually oriented businesses now existing and to those
that may be established in the future.
(b) The locational regulations and permitting requirements in Section 48-4 and
Sections 48-18 through 48-24 adopted hereunder are adopted under the authority of Chapter 243
of the TEX. LOC. Gov'T CODE. A violation of any of the locational and permitting provisions in
Section 48-4 and Sections 48-18 through 48-24 of this chapter adopted under the authority of
Chapter 243 of the TEX. Loc. Gov'T CODE shall constitute a Class A Misdemeanor and may be
punished in accordance with Chapter 12 of the TEx. PENAL CODE.
(c) The provisions of Sections 48-5 through 48-17 of this chapter are adopted under the
authority of TEx. CONST. art. XI, § 5 and the City Charter of the City of Corpus Christi. A violation
of any of the provisions of Sections 48-5 through 48-17 shall constitute a Class C misdemeanor and
may be enforced in accordance with Chapter 54 of the TEx. LOC. Gov'T CODE and the Code of
Ordinances of the City of Corpus Christi.
(d) Sections 48-4 through 48-7 of this chapter may be amended only after compliance with
the procedure required to amend a zoning ordinance contained in Chapter 211, TEXAS Loc. Gov'T
CODE.
(e) Each calendar day that any violation shall occur or continue to occur shall constitute and
be punishable as a separate offense.
(f) The revocation or suspension of a permit shall not prohibit the imposition of a criminal
penalty. The imposition of a criminal penalty shall not prohibit the revocation or suspension of a
permit.
(g) The City may bring a civil action for the enforcement of this Chapter.
(h) No provision of this Chapter shall be construed as relieving any party from any other
provision of state or federal law or from any provision of an ordinance, rule, or regulation of the City
of Corpus Christi.
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(i) Culpability shall be determined in accordance with the TEXAS PENAL CODE §6.02.
ARTICLE II. GENERAL OPERATING REGULATIONS
Section 48-4. Location of Sexually Oriented Businesses
(a) The operation of sexually oriented businesses is prohibited on premises that are located
within 1000 feet of a residence or residential district. Measurements shall be made in a straight line
without regard to intervening structures or objects, from the nearest point on the premises of the
sexually oriented business to the nearest point on the boundary line of such residential premises or
residential district.
(b) The operation of sexually oriented businesses is prohibited on premises that are located
within 1500 feet of another sexually oriented business which has been issued a permit under this
chapter. Measurements shall be made in a straight line without regard to intervening structures or
objects, from the nearest point on the premises of the sexually oriented business to the nearest point
on the premises of any other sexually oriented business.
(c) The operation of sexually oriented businesses is permitted on premises that are located
in an "I-3" Heavy Industrial District, as that term is defined in the Zoning Ordinance and Map of the
City of Corpus Christi, and no other zoning district.
(d) The operation of sexually oriented businesses is prohibited on premises that are located
in an area bounded on the north by Nueces Bay, on the east by Corpus Christi Bay, on the south and
west by Elizabeth Street extended westward from Corpus Christi Bay to its intersection with South
Staples Street, then northward along North and South Staples Street to Interstate Highway 37, then
running westward along Interstate Highway 37 to North Navigation Boulevard and on the west by
Navigation Boulevard and its extension to Nueces Bay.
Section 48-5. Exemption From Location Restrictions
(a) If the location of a sexually oriented business establishment is in violation of subsection
48-4(a) or 48-4(b) of this chapter, then the applicant may file with the Zoning and Code Enforcement
Administrator a written request for an exemption from the locational restrictions of subsection
48-4(a) or 48-4(b).
(b) The Zoning and Code Enforcement Administrator shall set a date for the hearing within
sixty (60) days from the date the written request is received when the Zoning Board of Adjustment
shall consider the request.
(c) The Zoning Board of Adjustment shall hear and consider evidence offered by any
interested person. The formal rules of evidence do not apply.
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(d) The Zoning Board of Adjustment may, in its discretion, grant an exemption from the
locational restrictions of subsection 48-4(a) or 48-4(b) by a concurring vote of 75 percent of the
members of the board if it makes the following findings:
(1) that the location of the proposed sexually oriented business will not have a
detrimental effect on nearby residential or commercial properties or be contrary to the public safety
or welfare;
(2) that the granting of the exemption will not violate the spirit and intent of this
chapter of the city code;
(3) that the location of the proposed sexually oriented business will not downgrade
the property values or quality of life in the adjacent areas or encourage the development of urban
blight;
(4) that the location of an additional sexually oriented business in the area will not
be contrary to any program of neighborhood conservation nor will it interfere with any efforts of
urban renewal or restoration;
(5) that the distance requirements for the location of the sexually oriented business
contained in subsection 48-4(a) or 48-4(b) of this chapter may not be reduced by more than 250 feet;
and
(6) that all other applicable provisions of this chapter will be observed.
(e) The Zoning Board of Adjustment shall approve or deny the exemption in accordance with
the procedures for Zoning Boards of Adjustment contained in the Tex. Loc. GOV'T CODE,
Chapter 211. Notice shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of TEx. Loc. GOV'T CODE
§§ 211.006 and 211.007.
(0 If the board denies the exemption, the applicant may not re -apply for an exemption from
the locational regulations of this Chapter for the same premises until at least twelve (12) months
have elapsed since the date of the board's action.
(g) The grant of an exemption does not exempt the applicant from any other provisions of
this chapter other than the locational restrictions of subsection 48-4(a) or 48-4(b).
Section 48-6. Existing Businesses.
(a) A sexually oriented business lawfully operating on December 27, 1995 that is in violation
of subsection (a), (b), (c), or (d) of Section 48-4 shall be deemed a nonconforming use. Except as
provided in this section, such nonconforming use shall be interpreted and applied in accordance with
Article 26, Nonconforming Uses, of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Corpus Christi. The
nonconforming use, including signs, shall be permitted to continue for a period of seven (7) years
unless the nonconforming use is sooner terminated for any reason or voluntarily discontinued for a
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period of more than six months. A nonconforming use allowed under this subsection, including
signs, shall not be increased, enlarged, extended, or altered except the use may be changed to a
conforming use. If two or more sexually oriented business premises are within 1,500 feet of one
another and otherwise in a permissible location, the sexually oriented business which was first
established and continually operating at a particular location is the conforming use and any later
established sexually oriented business is a nonconforming use.
(b) The City Council may, in its discretion, grant an extension for operation after the seven
(7) year amortization period if the owner of the existing enterprise proves that he is unable to recoup
his investment in such existing enterprise within seven (7) years of the effective date of this chapter.
In order to secure an extension of time, the owner must submit to the City Manager a written request
for such extension on or before June 30, 2002. No application for extension received by the City
Manager after June 30, 2002 shall be considered. Such written request shall set forth the following
information:
(I) the amount of the owner's investment in the existing enterprise through
December 27, 1995;
(2) the amount of such investment that has been or will be realized through the
seven (7) year amortization period;
(3) the life expectancy of the existing enterprise;
(4) the existence or nonexistence of lease obligations, as well as any contingency
clauses therein permitting termination of such lease.
This information shall be supported by relevant documentary evidence such as financial statements
and tax records. Copies of such documentary evidence must be attached to the request for extension.
(c) The City Manager shall notify an applicant for an extension of time of the time and place
of a hearing to be held on such request before the City Council. After such hearing, the City Council
will issue a written order on the request for extension. If the owner desires to appeal the City
Council's order, he or she may do so by appealing to district court within thirty (30) days of receipt
of the written order. Extensions that are granted shall specify a date certain for closure and shall not
be valid for operation at any other location.
(d) A sexually oriented business operating as a conforming use is not rendered a
nonconforming use by the location, subsequent to the grant or renewal of a sexually oriented
business permit, of a residence or residential district within 1,000 feet of the sexually oriented
business. This provision applies only to the renewal of a valid permit and does not apply when an
application for a permit is submitted after a permit has expired or has been revoked.
Section 48-7. On -premise Advertising and Signs.
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(a) On -premise advertisements, displays, or other promotional materials for a sexually
oriented business, which are distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matter depicting,
describing, or relating to "specified sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas", shall not be
shown or exhibited so as to be visible to the public from public places located outside the business
premises.
(b) A person commits an offense if that person allows on -premise advertisements, displays,
or other promotional materials for a sexually oriented business, which are distinguished or
characterized by an emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to "specified sexual
activities" or "specified anatomical areas", to be shown or exhibited so as to be visible to the public
from public places located outside the business premises.
(c) Notwithstanding the City Zoning Ordinance, Building Code or any other city ordinance,
code, or regulation to the contrary, it shall be unlawful for the owner or operator of any sexually
oriented business to maintain or have maintained by another person, more than one primary sign and
more than one secondary sign on the premises of a sexually oriented business.
(d) Primary signs shall not exceed one structure or device. Such primary sign shall:
(1) be a flat plane and rectangular in shape;
(2) not exceed seventy-five (75) square feet in area composed of extending lines
including the outer extremities of all letters, symbols, figures, character and delineations or the
framework or background which ever lines include the larger area. Double faced signs shall count
as one face provided that the faces are back-to-back, parallel and not more than thirty-six inches
apart;
(3) not exceed ten (10) feet in height or ten (10) feet in width; and
(4) not contain any moving parts, flashing lights, reflectors, photographs, silhouettes,
drawings or pictorial representations of any manner.
(e) Secondary signs shall have only one (1) display surface. The surface display shall:
(1) be a flat plane and rectangular in shape;
(2) not exceed twenty (20) square feet in area;
(3) not exceed five (5) feet in height or eight (8) feet in width;
(4) be affixed flat against any wall or door of the business; and
(5) not contain any moving parts, flashing lights, reflectors, photographs, silhouettes,
drawings or pictorial representations of any manner.
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(f) In this section "premises" or "on -premise" means all of a tract of commercial property in
which a sexually oriented business is located in addition to the area encompassed in the definition
of "premises" contained in Section 48-2 of this chapter.
Section 48-8. Inspections
(a) An owner, manager, or an employee of a sexually oriented business shall allow
representatives of the police department to inspect the premises of a sexually oriented business for
the purpose of insuring compliance with the law at any time the sexually oriented business is open
for business.
(b) An owner, manager or employee of a sexually oriented business commits an offense if
that person refuses to permit an inspection of the premises at any time it is open for business.
Section 48-9. Notice
(a) Any notice required or permitted to be given by any city personnel or department under
this chapter to any applicant or owner of a sexually oriented business may be given either by
personal delivery or by U.S. Postal Service certified mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested,
to the most current business address as specified in the application for the permit, or any amendment
thereof, which has been received by the Chief of Police. Notification or delivery by mail shall be
complete upon deposit of the paper, enclosed in a postpaid, properly addressed wrapper, in a post
office or official depository under the care and custody of the United States Postal Service. Receipt
of notice by mail shall be deemed to occur on the date physically received or the third day following
notification, whichever is earlier.
(b) In the event that any notice given by mail is returned by the U.S. Postal Service, the
Chief of Police shall cause it to be posted in plain view at the principal entrance to the business.
(c) A person commits an offense if that person removes any notice or order posted upon any
sexually oriented business pursuant to this chapter. It is a defense to prosecution under this chapter
that the actor had the prior express consent of the Chief of Police to remove any notice or order.
Section 48-10. Age Restrictions
(a) A person under the age of eighteen (18) years is prohibited from entering into or being
on the premises of a sexually oriented business.
(b) A person commits an offense if that person is under the age of eighteen (18) years and
knowingly enters into or is on the premises of a sexually oriented business.
(c) An owner, manager, or employee commits an offense if that person knowingly,
recklessly, or with criminal negligence allows a person who is under the age of eighteen (18) years
to remain on the premises of a sexually oriented business.
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(d) It shall be the duty of the owner or manager of each regulated business to ensure that an
employee is stationed at or has in view each public entrance to the regulated business at all times
during regular business hours. It shall be the duty of the employee not to allow any person under the
age of eighteen (18) years to enter the establishment.
(e) It shall be presumed that an owner, manager, or an employee knew a person was under
the age of eighteen (18) years unless such employee asked for and was furnished a valid driver's
license or a valid personal identification certificate issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety,
the licensing authority of another state, or the federal government reflecting that such person is
eighteen (18) years of age or older. It shall be a defense to any charge under this section that the
owner, manager, or employee was shown by such person a driver's license or other personal picture
identification which, upon reasonable examination, appeared to be valid on its face reflecting that
such person is more than seventeen (17) years old.
Section 48-11. Public Health and Education
(a) Each room or compartment of the sexually oriented business to which patrons are
allowed access shall have a sign posted with a sexually transmitted disease (STD) educational
message, which will consist of one of the following statements in both the English and Spanish
languages in letters not less than one and one-half 0-1/2) inches in height:
STOP SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES
AVOID CONTACT WITH SEXUAL FLUIDS
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES ARE TRANSMITTED
BY SEX WITHOUT CONDOMS
(b) An owner of a sexually oriented business commits an offense if the sexually oriented
business does not have an STD educational message posted in plain view in each room or
compartment of the sexually oriented business to which patrons are allowed access.
(c) All sexually oriented businesses shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition. This
subsection shall be enforced in accordance with the provisions of the TEXAS HEALTH & SAFETY
CODE and the public health provisions of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Corpus Christi.
Section 48-12. Management of Sexually Oriented Businesses
(a) The owner shall designate and appoint an individual(s) to manage, direct and control the
premises and operations of the sexually oriented business.
(b) The person(s) appointed to manage, direct and control the sexually oriented business
shall remain in or upon the premises at all times the sexually oriented business is open.
(c) During the time a person is on duty as manager, the person appointed to manage, direct
and control the sexually oriented business shall at all times have the duty to ensure that each
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employee in the sexually oriented business has training on the requirements of this chapter and is
instructed to commit no act which would constitute a violation of this chapter or which would
provide grounds, or part of the grounds , for revocation of a permit under this chapter. A manager
commits an offense if he fails to see that such training and instruction is provided.
(d) The person appointed to manage, direct and control the sexually oriented business
commits an offense if that person solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid an employee
to violate the provisions of this chapter.
ARTICLE III. ADDITIONAL OPERATING REGULATIONS
Section 48-13. Adult arcades/adult video arcades/adult movie arcades
(a) In each adult arcade/adult video arcade/adult movie arcade, at least one manager's station
shall be located within the premises and such location(s) shall provide an owner, manager, or
employee on duty with an unobstructed view of every area of the adult arcade to which any patron
is permitted access for any purpose, other than toilet facilities, from said manager's station. If an
adult arcade has two or more manager's stations, the interior design of the adult arcade shall be
configured to provide an unobstructed view of each area of the adult arcade to which any patron is
permitted access for any purpose, other than toilet facilities, from at least one of the manager's
stations. The view required must be by direct line of sight from a manager's station and there must
be sufficient light for a person at the manager's station(s) to view every area of the adult arcade to
which any patron is permitted access for any purpose, other than toilet facilities. Each manager's
station shall be maimed at all times. It shall be the duty of the owners, managers and employees of
the adult arcade to ensure that the view area specified in this ordinance remains unobstructed by
merchandise, display racks or other materials at all times that any patron is present in the adult
arcade.
(b) No owner, manager or employee of an adult arcade shall equip or allow to remain
equipped any area to which patrons are permitted access with screens, doors, curtains or obstructions
and coverings of any kind that prevent a direct and unobstructed view of the area. This subsection
shall not apply to toilet facilities, nor shall it be deemed to prevent the use of exterior doors.
(c) All interior walls of any areas into which patrons are allowed access shall be continuous
from floor to ceiling with no apertures, holes or other openings.
(d) A viewing compartment, cubicle, or booth shall not be occupied by more than one (1)
person at any time.
Section 48-14. Escort Agencies
(a) The owner or manager of an escort agency shall not employ as an escort any person
under the age of eighteen (18) years.
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(b) A person commits an offense if that person acts as an escort or agrees to act as an escort
for any person under the age of eighteen (18) years.
(c) An owner or manager of an escort agency commits an offense if that person employs as
an escort any person under the age of eighteen (18) years.
(d) An owner, manager, or employee of an escort agency commits an offense if that person,
while he or she is employed as an escort for any compensation whatsoever, exposes that person's
genitals, pubic region or pubic hair, or the crevice of the buttocks.
(e) An owner, manager, or employee of an escort agency commits an offense if, while he
or she is employed as an escort for any compensation whatsoever, the owner, manager, or employee
solicits a customer to expose the customer's genitals, pubic region or pubic hair, or the crevice of
the buttocks.
(1) An owner, manager, or employee of an escort agency commits an offense if, while he or
she is employed as an escort for any compensation whatsoever, and appearing "nude or in a state of
nudity", he or she touches a customer or the clothing of a customer.
Section 48-15. Adult Modeling Studios
(a) An owner, manager, or employee of an adult modeling studio shall not place or permit
a bed, sofa, or mattress in any room on the premises of an adult modeling studio, except that a sofa
may be placed in a reception room open to the public.
(b) An owner, manager, or employee of an adult modeling studio commits an offense if that
person places or permits a bed, sofa, or mattress in any room on the premises of an adult modeling
studio, except in a reception room open to the public.
(c) No person shall be permitted to use the premises of an adult modeling studio as living
quarters or residence in any capacity, temporarily or permanently.
(d) An owner, manager, or employee of an adult modeling studio commits an offense if that
person uses or allows another person to use the premises of an adult modeling studio as living
quarters or residence in any capacity, temporarily or permanently.
(e) No adult modeling studio shall be kept open for business between the hours of 10:00 p.m.
and 8:00 a.m.
(f) An owner, manager, or employee of an adult modeling studio commits an offense if that
person conducts business as an adult modeling studio or operates an adult modeling studio between
the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
Section 48-16. Adult Motels
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(a) Evidence that a sleeping room in a hotel, motel, or similar commercial establishment has
been rented and vacated two or more times in a period of time that is less than (10) hours creates a
presumption that the establishment is an adult motel as that term is defined in this chapter.
(b) A person commits an offense if, as the person in control of a sleeping room in a hotel,
motel, or similar commercial establishment that does not have a sexually oriented business permit,
that person rents or subrents a sleeping room to a person and, within ten (10) hours from the time
the room is rented, that person rents or subrents the same sleeping room again.
(c) For purposes of Subsection (b) of this Section, the terms "rent" or "subrent" mean the act
of permitting a room to be occupied for any form of consideration.
Section 48-17. Adult Cabarets/Adult Lounges
(a) An owner, manager, or employee of an adult cabaret/adult lounge commits an offense
if, while exposing that persons genitals, pubic region or pubic hair, or anus, he or she is on the
premises of an adult cabaret/adult lounge and in an area of the premises open to customers,
excluding toilet facilities.
(b) An owner, manager, or employee commits an offense if the owner, manager, or
employee of an adult cabaret/adult lounge permits any customer access to an area of the premises
not visible by a walk through of the premises without entering a closed area, excluding toilet
facilities.
(c) An owner or manager who operates an adult cabaret/adult lounge commits an offense if
the owner or manager operates an establishment without maintaining a current list of all employees.
The list must be kept on file at the establishment at all times whether the employee is on or off-duty
and include the following information regarding each employee:
(1) correct legal name;
(2) all alias or stage names currently used by the employee;
(3) date of birth;
(4) race;
(5) color of hair and eyes;
(6) current residence and phone number; and
(7) Texas drivers license number or identification number.
(d) The owner, manager, or employee of a regulated establishment commits an offense by
failing to provide, or by providing false or deceptive information on an employee list that was
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requested by a licensed peace officer for purposes related to the enforcement of this chapter. It is
a defense to prosecution of the owner or manager for providing false or deceptive information under
this subsection that the information in Section 48-17(c)(2), (4), (5), and (6) was provided in writing
by the employee and is maintained by the permittee on the premises of the sexually oriented business
while such person is an employee of the sexually oriented business, and the owner or manager had
no reason to doubt the information presented. It is a defense to prosecution of an owner or manager
for providing false or deceptive information under this subsection that the information in Section
48-17(c)(1), (3), and (7) was obtained from a current Texas driver's license, a copy of which is
maintained by the permittee on the premises of the sexually oriented business while such person is
an employee of the sexually oriented business. and the owner or manager had no reason to doubt the
information presented.
ARTICLE IV. PERMITS
Section 48-18. Permits Required
(a) A commercial establishment that is a sexually oriented business shall be permitted in
accordance with this chapter. Each adult cabaret, adult lounge, nude studio, modeling studio, love
parlor, adult bookstore, adult movie theater, adult video arcade, adult movie arcade, adult video
store, adult motel, adult novelty shop, adult arcade, adult encounter parlor, escort agency, or other
type of sexually oriented business shall require a separate permit.
(b) A person commits an offense if that person conducts business as a sexually oriented
business within the City of Corpus Christi unless a permit is issued by the Chief of Police for the
conduct of such business.
(c) A person commits an offense if that person conducts business as a sexually oriented
business within the City of Corpus Christi unless that person posts the permit at or near the principal
public entrance to the business in such a manner that it will be conspicuous to patrons who enter the
premises, or behind the bar in a conspicuous manner.
(d) Every permittee shall have and maintain exclusive occupancy and control of the entire
permitted premises in every phase of the operation of the sexually oriented business on the permitted
premises. A permitee commits an offense if the permitee attempts to avoid such responsibility by
creating any device, scheme or plan which surrenders control of the employees, premises or business
of the permittee to persons other than the permittee.
Section 48-19. Permit Application
(a) Applications for a permit, whether original or renewal, must be made to the Chief of
Police by the owner of the business. Applications must be submitted to the Police Department
between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (City holidays excepted).
Application forms shall be supplied by the Chief of Police.
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(b) The applicant shall be the owner and shall provide the following information on the
application form:
(1) The name and street address (and mailing address, if different) and valid state
driver's license number or identification card number of the applicant.
(2) The name under which the business is to be operated and a general description
of the services and products to be provided.
(3) The telephone number of the business.
(4) The address, and a legal description of the parcel of land on which the business
is to be located.
(5) The date on which the owner acquired the business for which the permit is
sought, and the date on which the business began operations or intends to begin operations as a
sexually oriented business at the location for which the permit is sought.
(6) The name and street address (and mailing address, if different) and valid state
driver's license number or identification card number of the applicant's spouse, if applicable.
(c) The application shall be accompanied by the following:
(1) A certified copy of the assumed name certificate filed in compliance with the
Assumed Business or Professional Name Act (Chapter 36, TEXAS BUSINESS & COMMERCE CODE)
if the business is to be operated under an assumed name.
(2) If the business is a Texas corporation, a copy of the Articles of Incorporation,
with all amendments thereto, certified by the Secretary of State.
(3) If the business is a foreign corporation, a copy of the certificate of authority to
transact business in this state, with all amendments thereto, certified by the Secretary of State.
(4) If the business is a limited partnership formed under the laws of Texas, a copy
of the certificate of limited partnership, with all amendments thereto, certified by the Secretary of
State.
(5) If the business is a foreign limited partnership, a copy of the certificate of limited
partnership and the qualification documents, with all amendments thereto, certified by the Secretary
of State.
(6) A copy of a valid Texas driver's license or identification card of the applicant.
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(7) Any of items (1) through (6), above, shall not be required for a renewal
application if the applicant states that the documents previously furnished the Chief of Police with
the original application or previous renewals thereof remain correct and current.
(8) A diagram of the premises showing a plan thereof, specifying the manager's
station location(s) if applicable, which designates the portions of the premises in which patrons will
not be permitted. Each diagram should be oriented towards the north or to a designated street. The
diagram shall be drawn to a designated scale.
(d) The application shall contain a statement under oath that:
(1) The applicant has personal knowledge of the information contained in the
application and that the information contained therein is true and correct.
(2) The applicant has read the provisions of this chapter regarding sexually oriented
businesses.
(e) The application shall be signed by all the owners.
(1) A separate application and permit shall be required for each business location and for
each type of sexually oriented business.
(g) The fee for an original or transfer application is five hundred dollars ($500.00). The fee
for a renewal application is three hundred and twenty five dollars ($325.00). The fee for a
reinspection of the premises is one hundred and seventy five dollars ($175.00). Payment shall be
by certified check, cashier's check or money order. The fee shall be paid in full at the time of
application and is not refundable.
Section 48-20. Term And Renewal Of Permit
(a) Each permit shall be valid for a period of one (1) year and shall expire on the anniversary
of its date of issuance unless sooner revoked or surrendered. Each permit shall be subject to renewal
as of its expiration date by the filing of a renewal application with the Chief of Police. Renewal
applications will be filed at least thirty (30) days, but not more than ninety (90) days, prior to the
expiration of the permit that is to be renewed. If the permit has been revoked but the revocation is
in abatement in accordance with Section 48-24(c), then the application may be submitted within ten
(10) days following the receipt of the written notice of the City Manager's final action on the appeal.
(b) A permit is valid only at the premises for which it is issued.
(c) A person commits an offense if that person counterfeits, forges, changes, defaces, or
alters a permit.
(d) A permit may be canceled upon written request of the owner and/or the surrender of the
actual permit to the Chief of Police.
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Section 48-21. Issuance Or Denial Of Permit
(a) Within thirty (30) days of receipt of any application, either original, renewal, or transfer,
the Chief of Police shall grant or deny the requested permit and give written notice to the applicant
as to the decision. In the event that the Chief of Police determines that an applicant is not eligible
for a permit, the notice shall include the reasons for the denial of the permit.
(b) The Chief of Police shall issue a permit to the applicant unless one or more of the
following conditions exist:
(1) The Applicant's sexually oriented business is located in violation of the
provisions of Section 48-4 of this Chapter.
(2) The applicant failed to supply all of the information required on the application
by Section 48-19.
(3) The applicant gave fraudulent or untruthful information on the application. This
part does not apply to clerical errors.
(4) The application or the business does not meet any other requirement of this
chapter.
(5) The applicant or the applicant's spouse has been convicted of a felony for which
less than five years have elapsed since the date of conviction or the date of release from confinement
imposed for the conviction, whichever is the later date, or a misdemeanor for which less than two
years have elapsed since the date of conviction or the date of release from confinement imposed for
the conviction, whichever is the later date, of a crime in any state involving:
(i) public lewdness, indecent exposure, or indecency with a child as described
in Chapter 21 of the TEXAS PENAL CODE;
(ii) sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault as described in Chapter 22 of
the TEXAS PENAL CODE;
(iii) prohibited sexual conduct, enticing a child, harboring a runaway child,
or sale or purchase of a child as described in Chapter 25 of the TEXAS PENAL CODE.
(iv) prostitution, promotion of prostitution, aggravated promotion of
prostitution, compelling prostitution, obscenity, sale, distribution, or display of harmful material to
a minor, sexual performance by a child, employment harmful to children, or possession or promotion
of child pornography as described in Chapter 43 of the TEXAS PENAL CODE;
(v) facilitation, attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the
foregoing offenses; or
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(vi) any similar offenses to those described above under the criminal or penal
code of another state.
(c) Property uses and distances for original applications shall be determined as of the time
that the application is filed. If a renewal or transfer application is timely filed, the property uses and
measurements for the renewal or transfer application shall be determined as of the time that the
original application for the business was filed. If not timely filed, renewal applications shall be
treated in the same manner in all respects as original applications.
Section 48-22. Permit Transfers
(a) A permit is personal to the owner designated in the application. A permit may be
transferred pursuant to this Section. A transfer application must be filed within thirty (30) days of
any change of owner designated on the current permit. A transfer application shall allow the
continuation of business under an existing permit while a new application is being processed. Any
transfer application shall require and be treated in all respects as an original permit application. In
the event that a transfer application is not timely filed, then the existing permit shall be invalid for
any purpose relating to the operation of the business. Provided, however, that nothing in this section
shall affect the nonconforming use provisions of Section 48-6.
(b) Transfer applications shall be filed on the same form and in the same place and at the
same times as original applications and the fee shall be payable in the same manner as for original
applications.
(c) Transfers shall be reviewed, issued and subject to appeal in the same manner as original
applications. The permit will be issued for one year.
Section 48-23. Revocation Of Permit
(a) The Chief of Police shall have the authority to revoke a permit for any one or more of
the following reasons:
(1) The permittee or permittee's spouse has been convicted of any of the following
offenses during the permit period:
(i) public lewdness, indecent exposure, or indecency with a child as described
in Chapter 21 of the TEXAS PENAL CODE;
(ii) sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault as described in Chapter 22 of
the TEXAS PENAL CODE;
(iii) prohibited sexual conduct, enticing a child, harboring a runaway child,
or sale or purchase of a child as described in Chapter 25 of the TEXAS PENAL CODE;
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(iv) prostitution, promotion of prostitution, aggravated promotion of
prostitution, compelling prostitution, obscenity, sale, distribution, or display of harmful material to
a minor, sexual performance by a child, employment harmful to children, or possession or promotion
of child pornography as described in Chapter 43 of the TEXAS PENAL, CODE;
(v) facilitation, attempt, conspiracy, or solicitation to commit any of the
foregoing offenses; or
(vi) any similar offenses to those described above under the criminal or penal
code of another state.
(2) The permittee of the permitted business gave materially false or fraudulent
information on the original, renewal or transfer application form.
(3) That the permit was not issued in accordance with the criteria contained in this
chapter.
(b) Prior to revocation of a permit, the Chief of Police shall conduct an investigation to
determine whether the permit should be revoked. If the Chief of Police determines the permit should
be revoked, the Chief of Police shall notify the owner in writing that the permit is revoked and the
reasons for the revocation.
(c) The revocation shall commence on the day after the time to file an appeal with the City
Manager under Section 48-24(b) has expired. In the case of such appeal, the revocation is abated
in accordance with Section 48-24(c) until the City Manager's written notice of final action on appeal
required by Section 48-24(b) is delivered to the permittee.
(d) The fact that a permit has been renewed shall have no effect on the revocation of the
permit.
(e) When the Chief of Police revokes a permit, the revocation shall continue for one year and
the permittee shall not be issued a sexually oriented business permit for one year from the date
revocation became effective. If the permit was revoked under Subsection 48-23(a)(3) , an applicant
may be granted a permit at such time as the applicant complies with the requirements of this chapter.
Section 48-24. Appeal
(a) If the Chief of Police denies the issuance or renewal of a permit or revokes a permit, the
Chief of Police shall notify the applicant or permittee, by certified mail, return receipt requested, of
the action and the right to an appeal.
(b) Upon receipt of written notice of the denial or revocation of a permit, the applicant or
permittee whose application for a permit or permit renewal has been denied or whose permit has
been revoked has the right to appeal to the City Manager or a state district court. An appeal to the
City Manager must be filed with the City Secretary within 10 days after the receipt of the notice of
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the decision of the Chief of Police. The City Manager shall appoint a neutral person as hearing
official who must hear the appeal within 10 days of receipt of the appeal by the City Secretary. The
hearing official shall determine whether a preponderance of the evidence supports the denial or
revocation. The City Manager shall notify the applicant or permittee, by certified mail, return receipt
requested, of the hearing official's action within 15 days of receipt of the appeal by the City
Secretary. The notice shall advise the applicant or permittee of his or her right to appeal to a state
district court. An appeal to the state district court must be filed within 30 days after the receipt of
the notice of the denial or revocation of a permit by the Chief of Police or within 30 days after the
receipt of the notice of the decision of the City Manager. The applicant or permittee shall bear the
burden of proof in court.
(c) The appeal of a revocation of a permit to the City Manager shall abate the revocation of
the permit until such time as the City Manager notifies the owner of his or her final decision.
(d) The appeal of a revocation of a permit to state district court shall not abate the revocation
of the permit.
SECTION 4. That the Code of Ordinances, City of Corpus Christi, Texas is amended by
repealing Chapter 28, Massage Parlors, in its entirety and reserving such chapter for future use.
SECTION 5. If for any reason any section, paragraph, subdivision, clause, phrase, word or
provision of this ordinance shall be held invalid or unconstitutional by final judgment of a court of
competent jurisdiction, it shall not affect any other section, paragraph, subdivision, clause, phrase,
word or provision of this ordinance, for it is the definite intent of this City Council that every
section, paragraph, subdivision, clause, phrase, word or provision hereof be given full force and
effect for its purpose.
SECTION 6. That upon final passage and publication of this ordinance an owner of an
existing sexually oriented business shall have 30 days to file an application with the Chief of Police
after which time a sexually oriented business shall be operating unlawfully within the City of Corpus
Christi. If such application is timely filed with the Chief of Police, an existing sexually oriented
business may continue to operate until such time as the application is approved or denied by the
Chief of Police.
SECTION 7. Publication shall be made in the official publication of the City of Corpus
Christi as required by the City Charter of the City of Corpus Christi.
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That the foregoing ordinance was read for the first time and passed to its second reading on
this the IA day of MQ..X11\ , 19 01(0 , by the following vote:
alt
CU
11/4
Mary Rhodes Betty Jean Longoria
Dr. Jack Best vC John Longoria
Betty Black d Edward A. Martin
Melody Cooper Dr. David McNichols
11
Tony Heldenfels IQ
That the foregoing ordinance ws read for the second time and passed finally on this the it day
of likil , 19 A , by the following vote:
Mary Rhodes
Dr. Jack Best
Betty Black
Melody Cooper
Tony Heldenfels
PASSED AND APPROVED, this the
ATTEST:
Betty Jean Longoria
John Longoria
Edward A. Martin
Dr. David McNichols
✓td
))izw7t1U to/ ✓
Armando Chapa, City Secretary
Nn
Ii day of jt,uu_ , 1996.
MAYOR
THE CIT CORPUS CHRISTI
APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM THIS THE 12TH DAY OF JUNE 1996:
JAMES R. BRAY, JR., CITY ATTORNEY
By:
orbert J. Hart, Assis
AL,/
y Attorney
96Ni-12920.143 / 2d Reading With 5-28-96 & 6/11/96 Council Amendments
6-12-96
'1G
27
PUBLISHER'S AFFIDAVIT
State of Texas, } CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI
County of Nueces } ss: Ad # 676105
PO #
Before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public, this day personally came Darrell G. Coleman,
who being first duly sworn, according to law, says that he is Vice -President and Chief Financial
Officer of the Corpus Christi Caller -Times, a daily newspaper published at Corpus Christi in
said County and State, generally circulated in Aransas, Bee, Brooks, Duval, Jim Hogg, Jim
Wells, Karnes, Kenedy, Kleberg, Live Oak, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, Victoria, and Webb
Counties, and that the publication of NOTICE OF PASSAGE OF ORDINANCE NO. 022596
which the annexed is a true copy, was published in the Corpus Christi Caller -Times on the 17TH
day(s) of JUNE, 1996.
ONE (1) Time(s)
$ 53.65
L
0
0
0
Vice -President and Chief Financial Officer
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 26TH day of
JUNE. 1996.
Coy
Notary Public, Nueces County, Texas
CONNIE HARALSON
Print or Type Name of Notary Public
My commission expires on 5/14/97.