Raynor Naturopathic Massage

Reflexology and Foot Massage Laws in New York

. State Overview of Reflexology

  • Reflexology is not listed as an exempt modality under New York’s massage‐therapy statutes. New York law defines “massage therapy” to include any methodical soft‐tissue manipulation—reflexology included—so practitioners must hold a valid massage license to offer reflexology services op.nysed.gov.

  • Several bills (e.g., A03405 in 2023) have been introduced to create a separate reflexology license, but none have passed to date nysenate.gov.

Link to full state overview →
https://www.raynormassage.com/reflexology-regulations-and-laws-state-by-state-across-the-us


2. New York Massage Therapy Licensing

To legally perform reflexology (or any foot‐/hand‐based soft‐tissue work) in New York, you must be licensed as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) through the Office of the Professions:

Requirement Details
Education 1,000 hours of approved massage‐therapy instruction, covering anatomy, pathology, first aid, theory, technique, and supervised practicum
Examination Pass the New York State Massage Therapy Examination (state‐specific)
Other Prerequisites ≥ 21 years old; high school diploma/GED; criminal background check & fingerprints; liability insurance; CPR/AED certification
Renewal & Continuing Education Renew every 3 years with 36 hours of continuing education

Apply & Learn More →
https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/massage-therapy/license-requirements


3. Reflexology vs. Massage Therapy

  • Reflexology: Focused pressure on reflex points of the feet, hands, or ears.

  • Massage Therapy: Defined under Education Law Article 155 to include all systematic soft‐tissue manipulation methods (kneading, stretching, reflexology, etc.).

In New York, reflexology is legally a form of massage therapy—so no separate exemption applies.


4. Local Business & Health-Department Permits

Even with state licensure, most New York municipalities require local permits for massage/reflexology establishments:

  • New York City: All massage businesses must register with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene as a “Massage Establishment.”

  • Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse: Typically require a business license and may inspect premises through local health departments.

Tip: Always confirm local requirements through your city or county clerk’s office or local Health Department before opening.


5. Raynor Reflexology Guidance in New York

  • Raynor-trained reflexologists must hold a New York LMT license to lawfully provide reflexology services.

  • For commercial operations, secure any required local permits, and clearly advertise:

    “Certified Raynor Reflexology – Performed by Licensed Massage Therapist.”

  • Leverage our world‐class curriculum to stand out while staying fully compliant.

Explore Raynor Courses →
https://www.raynormassage.com/courses


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6. Quick Reference Table

Service Type State License Required? Local Permit Often Required?
Reflexology (any modality) Yes (LMT) Yes (health‐dept/business permit)
Massage Therapy (LMT) Yes Yes (establishment/business permit)
Raynor Reflexologists Yes (LMT) Yes (for commercial operations)

7. FAQs

Q: Can I advertise “reflexology” without an LMT license?
A: No—New York law classifies reflexology as massage therapy. Only licensed massage therapists may offer reflexology services.

Q: Are any local reflexology exemptions?
A: No separate state or local exemption exists—reflexology always falls under massage therapy regulations.

Q: What about the bills proposing reflexology licensing?
A: Bills like A03405 (2023) and A03425 (2021) aimed to create a reflexology license but did not advance beyond committee nysenate.gov.


8. Resources & Links

Disclaimer: Laws, regulations, and local ordinances can change. Always verify current requirements with the New York State Board of Massage Therapy and your local licensing authorities before opening or advertising your practice.