Apply for a permit to operate a body art establishment

Cost

If you are performing body art, you'll also need a license to practice. If you are running a special event like a fair or festival with body art, you'll need a temporary special event permit.

Make sure you have registered your business with the Treasurer & Tax Collector.

Download applicaiton

Write a check or money order for the application fee to the SF Department of Public Health.

All body art practitioners need a license to practice body art. They need to apply for a body art practitioner permit if they do not have a permit yet.

For each body art practitioner, provide their:

Full name
Registration number so we can confirm they have a license to practice in San Francisco

Tattoo Consent Form with your business name and address on it
Tattoo After Care Instructions
A floor plan or layout for existing tattoo establishments. This can be drawn by hand.

Deliver your materials in person or by mail to:

Environmental Health Branch
Tattoo, Body Piercing and Permanent Cosmetics
49 South Van Ness Ave., Suite 600
San Francisco, CA 94103

Get directions

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.

Last updated October 1, 2024