Massage Therapy Regulations and Laws in Minnesota

Overview

Minnesota does not maintain a statewide licensure or registration system for massage therapists. Instead, practitioners delivering “unlicensed complementary or alternative health care services” must comply with Minn. Stat. Chapter 146A, while many cities and counties impose their own business-licensing requirements. This patchwork approach balances basic consumer protections with flexibility for innovative modalities—such as Raynor Massage—to flourish. Minnesota.govMinnesota.gov

State‐Level Framework: Chapter 146A (CAP Statute)

Under Minn. Stat. §146A.01–.18, all unlicensed complementary and alternative health care providers (CAP) must:

• Provide a Client Bill of Rights at the first visit.

• Refrain from Prohibited Acts, including misrepresentation, unconsented touching, and sexual misconduct.

• Maintain Standards of Hygiene and safe practice.

There is no fee to register under CAP, and the Department of Health enforces the provisions. Minnesota.gov

Municipal Licensing Requirements

Because the state does not issue massage-therapy licenses, local governments regulate massage businesses and practitioners through ordinances. Requirements vary by jurisdiction:

Always verify local rules before practicing or booking services.

Pending State Legislation

Minnesota is considering bills to introduce statewide licensure under a new Board of Massage Therapy:

• SF 1131 / HF 362 (2025) would require:

  • 625 total training hours (500 contact, 125 clinical).

  • Two years’ experience for current practitioners to qualify by July 1, 2030.

  • Liability insurance and criminal background check.

  • Biennial renewal with continuing education; initial fees up to $285, renewal up to $185.

  • Municipal preemption for therapist licenses, though local business permits could remain. abmp.com

Exemptions

Under CAP and pending licensure proposals, exemptions typically include:

1. Students/Apprentices in accredited programs practicing under supervision.

2. Employees of Licensed Health Professionals (e.g., PTs, chiropractors) working within their scope.

3. Public Demonstrations with no expectation of privacy.

Scope of Practice & Consumer Choice

• Flexible Modalities: Without a rigid state board–defined scope, therapists may offer diverse techniques—including Raynor Massage, energy work, and emotional-release modalities—under CAP’s informed-consent framework.

• Informed Consent: CAP providers must clearly disclose credentials, treatment nature, and complaint procedures, empowering clients to choose therapies aligned with their wellness goals.

Fees & Renewal

• State CAP Registration: No fee; enforced through Minnesota Department of Health.

• Municipal Licenses: Vary by city (e.g., Saint Paul practitioner fee $106; establishment fees $100+).

• Proposed State License: Initial application up to $285; biennial renewal up to $185; continuing-education costs TBD under Board rules. abmp.com

Learn More & Stay Compliant

• Minnesota Department of Health – CAP Info: https://www.health.state.mn.us (search “Complementary and Alternative Health Care”)

• Local City/County Clerk Offices: For city-specific massage practitioner and establishment licenses.

• Track SF 1131 / HF 362: Visit the Minnesota Legislature site to review bill text and status.

By understanding Minnesota’s CAP-based, municipality-driven system—and the potential shift toward statewide licensure—practitioners and consumers can navigate regulations, maintain health-freedom choices, and ensure safe, affordable access to modalities like Raynor Massage.