https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825650 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 18:22:37 GMT Mon, 9 Feb 2026 15:11:19 GMT Copyright © 2026 The Society of American Magicians https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825650 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825650 Thu, 24 Jul 2025 23:43:43 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825798 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825798 Sat, 26 Jul 2025 04:48:25 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825799 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1825799 Sat, 26 Jul 2025 04:50:29 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1826106 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1826106 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 01:45:16 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1832537 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1832537 Tue, 7 Oct 2025 01:36:13 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1832545 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1832545 State vs. Local Regulations
State Constitution: The state prohibits outright bans on fortune-telling, as it is a form of expression protected by the state constitution.
Local Control: Instead, cities and counties have the authority to regulate the practice through permits and licenses to prevent fraud.
Common Requirements for Fortune-Tellers
Licensing: A valid license or permit from the local authority (e.g., the Sheriff or Police Department) is required to practice.
Background Checks & Fingerprints: Many permit applications require applicants to undergo background checks and provide fingerprints.
Public Hearings: Some cities, such as San Francisco, may require a public hearing as part of the licensing process.
Fees: There are typically application and permit fees, which can vary significantly.
Disclosures: Licensees may be required to clearly display their rates for services and provide paying customers with a receipt.
Examples of City Regulations
San Francisco: Fortune-tellers must obtain a permit from the Police Department, which involves a background check, fingerprinting, public hearing, and fees.
Los Angeles: While the state court struck down a general ban, certain municipal codes, like the Los Angeles Municipal Code's Section 43.30, prohibit the practice in specific contexts.
Riverside: The city requires a license from any establishment or individual who conducts or advertises fortune-telling services for pay.
Fraudulent Activity
It is illegal under California Penal Code Section 332 PC to obtain money or property through fraud, including deceptive fortune-telling practices. A prosecutor must prove a person tricked another into giving them money or property by fraudulent means.]]> Tue, 7 Oct 2025 02:33:26 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1833149 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1833149 ]]> Sat, 11 Oct 2025 21:23:35 GMT https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1844373 https://www.magicsam.com/forums/posts.aspx?topic=1844373 Mon, 9 Feb 2026 16:11:19 GMT