Utah regulates adult entertainment more tightly than most US states. Rules come from two levels: the state sets conditions for bars and taverns through its alcohol commission, while cities and counties license “sexually oriented businesses” and add their own restrictions. For visitors, that means clubs here look and work differently from clubs in Las Vegas or Portland. Our directory currently lists five venues in Utah, all in the Salt Lake City area.
What the rules say
- No full nudity: in 2006 the Utah Supreme Court upheld a South Salt Lake ordinance banning nude dancing at sexually oriented businesses. Under that ruling, dancers must wear G-strings and pasties.
- Stage separation in licensed bars: under state alcohol rule R82-6-404, a semi-nude performer may only appear on a commission-approved stage in a licensed bar or tavern. The stage must be at least 3 feet from the patron area, marked by a barrier or railing at least 3 feet high, and patrons may not be on the stage during a performance.
- No touching or tipping on the body: the same rule requires stages to be arranged so patrons cannot touch performers or put money or objects on their costume or body, and performers cannot touch patrons. Local ordinances may require greater distances.
- Alcohol depends on the licence type: in Salt Lake City, a sexually oriented business may not allow alcohol on the premises, with the exception of licensed “seminude dancing bars”. State rules also allow semi-nude entertainment in licensed bars and taverns under the conditions above, so you cannot assume every club either serves alcohol or bans it.
- Zoning: Salt Lake City allows these businesses only in certain commercial and manufacturing zones, at least 1,000 feet from schools, parks, places of worship, homes and each other.
Salt Lake Valley
All five clubs are in the Salt Lake Valley. Several sit in South Salt Lake, which is a separate city with its own ordinances.
- The American Bush — 2630 South 300 West
- Exotic Kitty — 3055 South State Street, South Salt Lake, UT 84115
- Duces Wild — 2750 S 300 W
- Southern X Posure International — 3420 S State St, UT 84115
- Southern Exposure Downtown — 1737 North Beck Street, Salt Lake City
What to check before you go
- Check whether alcohol is served. Under Utah’s rules, some venues can serve alcohol and others cannot. Look at the club’s website or call ahead.
- Bring a valid government-issued ID. Clubs check age at the door.
- Expect distance and no-touch rules. Stage barriers, minimum distances and bans on tipping on the body are required by law, not set by the club. Follow staff instructions on the floor.