Dallas Police to Enforce Overnight Closure Ordinance for Strip Clubs and Adult Stores

Dallas Police announce plans to enforce an ordinance mandating closure between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. for sexually oriented businesses like strip clubs, escort services, and adult stores.

Dallas Police are set to enforce an ordinance that restricts sexually oriented businesses’ operating hours, compelling closure between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. Violation of this ordinance could result in criminal charges or the loss of business licenses.

Police Chief Eddie García highlighted potential penalties of up to a year in jail or fines reaching $4,000 for non-compliance.

This decision comes after a federal court’s rejection of a challenge to block the ordinance by business owners. Despite legal contentions, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ordinance, emphasizing its potential role in curbing crime-related issues associated with late-night operations.

Although attorneys representing affected businesses argue the ordinance violates free speech under the First Amendment, the city’s evidence linking late-night business operations to increased crime stands as a basis for the enforcement. This move affects various sexually oriented businesses, impacting nearly 27 licensed establishments in Dallas.