SERVICE
Apply for a permit to perform body art
Get a license to become a tattoo, body piercing, or permanent cosmetics practitioner.
Environmental HealthWhat to know
Cost
- the application fee
- the annual license fee
Other permits you might need
If you own or operate a body art establishment, you'll need another permit. If you are running a special event like a fair or festival with body art, you'll need a temporary special event permit.
What to know
Cost
- the application fee
- the annual license fee
Other permits you might need
If you own or operate a body art establishment, you'll need another permit. If you are running a special event like a fair or festival with body art, you'll need a temporary special event permit.
What to do
1. Complete the Application
2. Pay the application fee
Write a check or money order for the application fee to the SF Department of Public Health.
3. Provide additional documents
- Driver's license or photo ID
- Current blood-borne pathogens training certificate (that meets the Cal OSHA requirement of at least 2 hours of instruction)
- Hepatitis vaccination certificate or completed declination form
4. Maintaining your permit(s)
- If you are a shop owner and are closing your location (a shop permit/J01, is site and owner specific, and is non-transferable), close your license with the SF Tax Collector's Office and with DPH.
- If you are a practitioner and are no longer working in San Francisco, close your license with the SF Tax Collector's Office and with DPH.
- If you are a practitioner and are moving to a new shop, add a new Location number to your Business Account using the shop address as the Location Address, while using your Owner and Trade Name/DBA.
Fill out this form and send to the BA program email BodyArts@sfdph.org
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What to expect
- After we process your application, we will email you a temporary permit.
- You will get a bill from the Tax Collector.
- Once you pay the annual license fee, the Tax Collector will send you your annual license by mail.
- We will mail you a permit to operate.
You will need to renew your license and pay the annual license fee each year. The Tax Collector will mail you your renewal bill. If you move, make sure to update your mailing address.