Seattle City Councilmember Tanya Woo is looking to propose legislation aimed at curbing violence associated with unlicensed after-hours nightclubs in Seattle. The proposal, which is supported by victims’ families, the Director of the SODO Business Improvement Area, nightclub operators, and other stakeholders, addresses issues surrounding establishments that operate between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. without the required licenses.
“My intention with this legislation is to bring stakeholder groups together — to convene people impacted by the violence that occurs in illegally operated after-hour establishments. Without the proper licenses, we are unable to regulate these businesses,” said Woo. “Hearing from these groups — including nightclub operators, victims’ families, neighborhood and community groups — helped shape this proposal. The goals are to bring safety, enforcement, and accountability to after-hour clubs, support business opportunities, and provide a safe nightlife for residents while helping to bring closure and peace of mind to impacted families.”
The proposed legislation outlines several measures for after-hours nightclubs, including a new regulatory license required for any establishment hosting gatherings for socializing, smoking, or dancing between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. Principal requirements would include prohibiting alcohol sales, barring entry to those under 21, maintaining at least two trained security personnel, conducting weapon screenings, and ensuring video surveillance at exits and unimpeded police access during operating hours.
The new license would involve a $250 application fee and could be revoked or denied if an establishment has a single shooting incident or two or more serious public safety incidents within a year. Operating without the license would result in a $1,000 fine for the first offense, with subsequent violations potentially leading to a misdemeanor charge and up to 90 days in jail.
Victims’ families and community members have voiced strong support for the proposed regulations.
“This proposal of after-hours night lounge regulations is something very needed in our city,” says Erika Santana, sister of Francisco David Escatell, who was killed in a SODO night lounge shooting. “After our brother Francisco David Escatell was killed…we felt the pain and sadness…only to find out there are no existing regulations for this type of business, leaving them free to keep running illegally a month after the murder.”
Amir Azer, an operator of Xtadium, a Seattle nightclub, says that he also supports the initiative.
“Keeping our patrons safe is a priority to us in hospitality. Nightlife should be a fun and safe environment for everyone,” said Amir.
Seattle has reported 38 shootings tied to nightlife this year, with 15 occurring between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., contributing to 11% of all shootings in the city as of August 2024. Over the past decade, dozens of violent incidents and homicides have occurred in connection with after-hours lounges operating during these times, including the 2015 shooting of Donald Chin, director of the International District Emergency Center, and a recent incident involving the death of Francisco Escatell in August 2024.
The legislation is expected to be introduced to the Seattle City Council for committee review in December, providing a framework to improve enforcement of licensing and address ongoing safety concerns in the city’s nightlife.