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California legal term

adult or sexually oriented business in California Criminal Law

Current through 2026 California legislative session

In California criminal law, “adult or sexually oriented business” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the California criminal code.

What does “adult or sexually oriented business” mean in California criminal law?

“adult or sexually oriented business” includes any establishment that regularly features live performances which are distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on the exposure of the genitals or buttocks of any person, or the breasts of any female person, or specified sexual activities that involve the exposure of the genitals or buttocks of any person, or the breasts of any female person. (Cal. Penal Code § 318.5)

Statutes defining or using this term

Related terms in the same statutes

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.