ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Tattoo & Body Piercing Establishments

Procedures for Starting a Tattoo or Body Piercing Business in El Dorado County

1. At the El Dorado County Public Health Department (PHD), fill out the “Registration for Individuals Performing Tattooing, Body Piercing, and Permanent Cosmetics” form. One form, including a fee, is needed for each tattoo artist. Provide documentation to our office that the PHD fee(s) have been paid.

2. Before constructing or remodeling an existing facility, submit a floor plan to our office for approval. The plan should meet the minimum requirements suggested in the "Health and Safety Guidelines Tips for Practice of California Body Arts" (see sample diagram) and the "Division of Environmental Health Tattoo Parlor Requirements." A plan review fee will be charged. You will receive a copy of your approved plan for your records.

3. Fill out the Tattoo Facility Permit Application form and send or deliver it to the El Dorado County Environmental Management Office. You must provide documentation that you have a current business license. There is an annual permit fee - click here for a fee schedule.

4. The "Medical Waste Management Act" forms must be read, filled out and submitted to our office. Generally, tattoo establishments hauling their own medical waste will fill out the "Limited Quantity Hauling Exemption Application Form". There is an annual permit fee for hauling your own medical waste. If you will be using a registered medical waste hauler instead of hauling the waste yourself, the permit fee to our office is a one-time fee. Fill out the appropriate medical waste tracking documents. Please contact our office for appropriate fee amounts. (Fee Schedule)

5. After you have constructed or remodeled your establishment, call our office for a final inspection. You will receive written approval to begin operations. Expect annual, unannounced inspections from our office. If complaints are made, these will also be investigated. Fees will be charged for all inspections and valid investigations. Click here for the Annual Permit Fee.