Hustler Hollywood Plans on Challenging 7th Circuit's Ruling

Hustler Hollywood Plans on Challenging 7th Circuit's Ruling

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — Hustler Hollywood plans on challenging Monday’s ruling from the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which held that a lower court was correct in holding that the city of Indianapolis can prohibit adult stores from operating in certain zoning districts.

“The court went against us and did not rule in our favor,” Larry Flynt told XBIZ. “However, we think we will prevail upon appeal.”

Attorneys for Flynt, whose holdings include the iconic LFP Inc. brand, which includes the adult entertainment Hustler mark, could ask for the 7th Circuit panel to rehear the case or ask the full court, en banc, to take another look at the appeal.

Hustler Hollywood last year filed a federal lawsuit seeking declaratory and injunctive relief against the city of Indianapolis and Marion County, as well as the Metropolitan Board of Zoning Appeals and other agencies after they refused to allow its new store to open in 2016 after it had signed a 10-year lease.

The location where Hustler Hollywood wanted to establish the store was zoned C-3, a classification in which adult-oriented stores and entertainment businesses are not permitted.  

Hustler Hollywood said it “analyzed its projected inventory, floor space and revenue, determining that it would easily operate below the threshold for triggering a designation of an adult entertainment business.”

That threshold pertained to 25 percent or more of its retail floor space, stock or weekly sales from adult products.

The retailer said that the city of Indianapolis incorrectly classified the store as an adult business and denied it the permits that it needed in order to open.

The retailer said the city’s actions were depriving it of both its 1st Amendment right to free expression and its 14th Amendment right to equal protection of law.

On Monday, the 7th Circuit agreed with a lower court ruling, holding the city’s application of the ordinance has resulted only in an incidental restriction on Hustler Hollywood’s speech in a particular location.

The ruling can be viewed here.

Pictured: Larry Flynt

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Like a Kitten, Dr. Tush Partner for 'Aftercare' Campaign

Pleasure brand Like a Kitten and wellness brand Dr. Tush have partnered for an aftercare-centered marketing campaign.

Wicked Sensual Care Debuts 'Coconut' Lube

Wicked Sensual Care (WSC) has introduced its first coconut oil-based lubricant.

Ohio AG Threatens Action Against 'Major' Adult Sites Over AV Law

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced today that his office is sending "notice of violation" letters to 19 adult websites for failure to comply with the state's recently enacted age verification law.

Sportsheets Debuts 'Indica' Collection of Bondage, Fetish Accessories

Sportsheets has introduced the new Indica collection from its Sex & Mischief line of bondage and fetish gear.

We-Vibe Debuts 'Temp' Vibe That Heats, Cools

We-Vibe has introduced its new Temp heating and cooling palm vibrator.

2026 XBIZ Exec Awards Pre-Noms Open With Debut of New 'Impact' Honors

XBIZ is pleased to announce that the pre-nomination period for the 2026 XBIZ Exec Awards, the adult industry’s premier career honor, begins today and runs through Oct. 14.

ProDx Health Launches 'Priority Club' Expedited Testing Program

ProDx Health has launched its new Priority Club expedited testing program.

Creative Conceptions Increases Satisfyer Inventory

Creative Conceptions is now distributing over 150 new items from Satisfyer.

We-Vibe Debuts 'Chorus Pro' Vibrator

We-Vibe has introduced its new Chorus Pro vibrator for couples.

Show More