Understanding the Exotic Dancing Industry in Calgary

The world of exotic dancing can be a confusing place to navigate, so we have put together some industry relevant information and tip’s to help you steer your way through.

What is an exotic dancer?

According to the City of Calgary Bylaw Department, a nude Entertainer;

Anyone who agrees to perform exotic entertainment (nude or semi nude) for 1 or more persons for money or goods.

The Handbook of Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission section 1.40 outlines the rules and guidelines one is to follow while engaging in exotic dancing.
• The definition of a Nude entertainer includes when the body is covered by paint or other substances.
• Minors are prohibited from performing as nude entertainers or entering establishment while there is nude entertainment.
• Before and after your show
o A change room must be provided
o You must be provided with a clear path to and from the stage
o You need to be fully clothed before, between and after your performance
• During your show
o Your dance area must have at least 1 metre of space between you and the customers
o You are not to be touched, or touch a customer, even with objects or through lap dances
o Customers are not allowed on the dance area or within the 1 metre of the dance area and dancers are not allowed in the customer area or within the 1 metre area of the customers
o You can dance with others as long as there is: no touching the other dancers and you need maintaining 1 metre distance between you and the other dancers
o You can not use an animal, bird, or reptile in your performance
o Nor can you use any props or sexual devices (dildo)
o Real or pretend acts of violence are not allowed
o You can not insert or extract any objects in to or from your body
o And you can not dance on tables, or perform lap dancing

Is a license required to dance?

Yes, you do need a license to work in Calgary, it lasts one year and it costs $140 for the license fee, $40 for the Police Review Fee and after one year you need to pay $107 for a renewal.
The Police Review Fee is a police check is a recommendation from the Calgary Police Services that reflects your past criminal activity and is taken into consideration when granting you your license. Try to clear up any outstanding warrants before applying for this license.
Call 268-5311 to set up an appointment or you can go to The Municipal Building at 3rd floor, 800 Macleod Trail SE

When you go for your license bring two pieces of, proof of employment, payment,

(Business Registration, City of Calgary, 2010).

What are some considerations to take before working as an exotic dancer?

What are the physical risks?

Poor lighting, insecure stages, and poles; as well as floors that are in poor repair can create hazards including slips and falls especially when wearing stilettos.

Remnants such as body oil, candle wax or sweat on the floor or pole could also create further hazards.

dancers report that it is not uncommon for bouncers, managers and police to treat assaults in and around a strip-club as an occupational hazard that dancers should expect and “deal with” without taking action against the perpetrator.

What are the risks to contracting infectious diseases?

Exposure to body fluids (saliva, vaginal discharge etc) that have been left on props, furniture, poles and other tools of the trade, can be a risk for HEP C, the Flu and other infections.

What are the health risks associated with substance use and abuse?

The club manager’s and customers may encourage the dancers to drink alcohol as part of the entertainment. Beware that drinking or drug use on the job may result in moving beyond personal boundaries and limitations.

What about security and theft?

Leaving valuables in the change rooms of the clubs may not be secure. Check in with the club manager to discuss security procedures.


What about the travel?

Keep in mind the safety, location and quality of the hotel room provided. Licensing and By-Laws vary between Provinces and Cities, so ensure you are aware of them and working within them.
Make sure a phone is provided or have your cell phone charged at all times. It is also a good idea to let someone know where you are at all times.


Where do I work?

Ask around; ask DJ’s dancers and other staff members about what the job is like at potential clubs. You want to know about fees, contract rules, average tips, tip outs, hours, working conditions, safety and security.

What about Agents?

Many clubs will require you have an agent. An agent should be able to book you the jobs you want in a timely and effective manner, they should have a competitive fee and you should ask around about different booking agents to see who may be the best fit.
• Get a contract from your agent stating pay and expectations.
• Inform the agent of assets, such as new costumes, new hair or a great tan
• Be professional and negotiate the pay and expectations.

Do I need my own supplies?

Towels are good to throw down on chairs (when your in costume) this helps you avoid touching your bare skin to unclean surfaces.
Blankets are great for on stage to make a barrier between you and the ground

For more information on this and other types of sex work, take a look at:
Trade Secrets Heath and Safety for the Sex industry http://tradesecretsguide.blogspot.com/search/label/Our%20Workspaces

National Network on Environments and women’s health; Towards Healthy work Environments for Exotic Dancers in Canada http://www.nnewh.org/images/upload/attach/7098star-policy-brief.pdf