Expert: Jim Boyd - 1/6/2008

Question
Hi Jim, Could you tell me what permits(state & federal) are needed to operate an adult web site. I do plan to consult with an attorney but for the moment I am just gathering facts on my own. Thank You, Keith

Answer
There are no Federal Permits (other than the required Federal Tax ID number). However, you MUST comply with USC Title 18 Section 2257 and CFR Title 28 Part 75.

State permits will probably be little more than a normal business license or privilege permit.

While it is perfectly legal to own and operate an Adult Site from pretty much anywhere in the United State, you should be made aware of the fact that you will have to travel to California to produce your content. This is because California is the ONLY place in the U.S. where it is legal to hire someone to have sex for the purpose of producing Adult Material.

Jim Boyd