Pittsburgh City Councilwoman Theresa Kail-Smith today said she's introducing legislation to change the way strip clubs, adult bookstores and other adult-entertainment businesses operate in the city.

Ms. Kail-Smith said current city law requires applicants for such businesses to seek special permission to operate anywhere in the city, a murky arrangement that's exposed the city to legal challenges from strip clubs that want to open in the West End and North Shore.

The councilwoman said one of the three bills she's introducing today would put the city on more solid legal footing by making adult-oriented businesses a use by right in certain industrial areas. Applicants still would have to obtain building permits if they want to build or modify buildings, and under another of Ms. Kail-Smith's bills, they would also have to obtain annual licenses.

A third bill would set standards of conduct for dancers and patrons. Stages would have to be at least 18 inches high. Dancers in a state of undress would keep at least 6 feet away from all patrons.

Enforcement duties would be divided among the city Bureau of Building Inspection and other public-safety agencies.

"It's like any other regulation we have," Ms. Kail-Smith said. "Enforcement is crucial."