Two Massage Spas Closed After Evading New Health Law In Sudbury

SUDBURY, MA — A new law in Sudbury governing "bodywork" businesses got its first test recently after the town issued cease and desist orders to two spas operating without the required local permits.

Sudbury Health Director Vivian Zeng said a town health inspector was able to book appointments for massages at Xin Xin Spa and Sun Spa recently. The town knew the businesses were in violation of the local law because no businesses have been issued licenses under the bodywork regulations ratified by the Board of Health in November.

The town created the law because businesses that advertise as "bodywork" services can get around a state law that governs massage therapy businesses. Some examples under the bodywork umbrella include acupuncture, aromatherapy, Asian bodywork and reflexology, Zeng said.

According to Zeng, Xin Xin, which is located at the Dudley Square plaza, is in the process of obtaining a state massage therapy permit. Bodywork businesses that hold state permits do not need local permits. Sun Spa has closed completely.

The town law requires all bodywork permit holders to meet minimum specifications, like having a high school diploma, being over age 21 and be able to pass state criminal and sex offender background checks.