Brothels and commercial sex premises

High Court ruling on council's bylaw relating to the location of brothels | Viewing the bylaw | Brothel licence applications | Dispensation from the bylaw

High Court ruling on council's bylaw relating to the location of brothels

A High Court ruling from Justice Heath on 14 March 2006 has ruled that the section of Auckland City's bylaw relating to the location of brothels is invalid.

This means the controls set out in the bylaw on the location of brothels are no longer operative.

The council is now considering its options with regard to the regulation of brothels.

The council could appeal the High Court decision, develop a new bylaw or rely on its District Plan to control the location of brothels.

In the meantime, those who own brothels no longer need to apply for a dispensation to operate if they contravene the location controls outlined in the bylaw.

Brothel operators should be aware that their operations still need to comply with the rules and regulations set down in the council's District Plan.

Until the council decides on a way forward, the details on the location of brothels outlined in the bylaw no longer apply.

For further information, please contact us.