Overview

A Cabaret (Class A) is defined as a business providing dance performance or other live entertainment, excluding theaters, liquor establishments, and public dance halls.

Effective December 4, 2002, Council File #02-871 - "An ordinance rescinding the requirement that cabaret license applicants hold restaurant licenses. LC426.01(a) No person shall engage in the business of operating a cabaret or adult cabaret without a license as provided for in this chapter. No license issued under this chapter shall be transferable from one (1) person, business, corporation, or location to another. Holders of restaurant licenses for non-liquor serving establishments shall not be required to obtain cabaret licenses, provided there are two (2) or fewer entertainment events in a month, and these events do not exceed twelve (12) in a year. This section does not apply to liquor-serving establishments which are required to obtain an entertainment license pursuant to LC411."

An Adult Cabaret (Class B) is defined as providing dancing or other live entertainment, and excluding minors by virtue of age, or if such dancing or other live entertainment is distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on the presentation, display, depiction, or description of "specified sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas." No obscene work shall be allowed. If you have questions, Contact DSI at 651-266-8989, or email the DSI Message Center.

Code Requirements

See Chapter 426 of the Saint Paul Legislative Code for information about cabarets.

Application Requirements

You must submit the following:

Inspections

Your application will be administratively reviewed by DSI Licensing, Zoning and Fire Inspection staff. This review may include on-site inspections(s) to verify compliance with applicable regulations. You will be informed of any required inspections including the name and telephone number of the inspector after the submission of a completed license application. The location must be in compliance with all applicable regulations and/or license conditions before any license may be issued.

Fees

See Fee Table for current license fees.

Expiration/Renewal

A Cabaret License will expire one year from date of issuance and may be renewed annually.

Last Edited: February 9, 2024