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Hotel & Dance Bar Law

Home Guidelines Hotel & Dance Bar Law

Establishment Regulations & Compliance

The operation of hotels, restaurants, and dance bars is subject to strict legal frameworks ensuring the safety, dignity, and rights of employees, dancers, and patrons. Establishments must abide by the Maharashtra Police Act, Maharashtra Shops and Establishment Act, and other relevant laws.

Employee Rights & Welfare

Contracts & Salary

Working women, dancers, and waitstaff must be employed under a written contract on a monthly salary deposited directly into their bank accounts (including PF benefits). A copy must be deposited with the licensing authority.

Women's Safety & Security

At least three female security guards must be present. Female employees working beyond 9:30 PM require written consent, and the establishment must provide free, safe travel home and adequate crèche facilities.

Biometrics & Identification

Employees must carry a photo ID at all times. Attendance is recorded via Biometric Identification. The proprietor must verify and maintain a register of names, Aadhar, age, photos, and background details (no criminal antecedents).

Operational & Licensing Rules

Anti-Harassment & Obscenity

Strict compliance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 and POCSO, 2013 is mandatory. No performance shall express obscenity or violate the dignity of women. Smoking is prohibited on stage and in the premises.

Tipping & Currency Rules

Customers cannot shower coins, currency, or monetized articles on dancers or anywhere on the premises. Tips can only be added to the final bill, which the licensee must pay in full to the dancers without salary deduction.

Timings, Age & Stage Limits

Bar rooms with dancing are open to the public only between 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM. Entry is strictly prohibited for persons under 21 (valid ID required). Dancers must be 21+. A maximum of 4 dancers may perform on stage simultaneously.

CCTV, Licensing & Police Access

All public entrances and areas must have CCTV, preserved for 30 days. Police Sub-Inspectors (or above) must have free access on duty. A suitability certificate from Rangbhumi Prayog Parinirikshan Mandal is required. No alcohol or narcotics are allowed in the dance room.

COVID-19 Health Protocols

Capacity & Distancing

  • 1.5 meters distance required between tables/customers (except same household).
  • Max 6 customers per table; long tables require 1.5m gaps between groups of 6.
  • Customer capacity cannot exceed available seating.
  • Prevent congregating in waiting areas.
  • Live music allowed if customers are 2m from the performance area.

Hygiene & Entry (O-N-T System)

  • Disinfectant at entrance; surfaces disinfected after every customer.
  • Maximum outside air circulation required; no air recirculation allowed.
  • Entry/Dancing allowed only for those who pass the O-N-T Check (Čtečka app) proving Vaccination or Past Illness (<180 days). PCR is accepted only in exceptional cases.
  • Exemptions exist for children under 12, non-public/take-out meals, and specific events (weddings/funerals).
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