Tattoo Parlor Permits

The Department of Public Health issues permits for any establishment and/or individual that offers tattoo services. The establishment and/or individual is inspected annually by an Environmental Health Inspector. Please refer to our Environmental Health Fee Schedule (PDF) for tattoo permit fees. 

The NC Department of Public Health Tattoo Program assures the safety of tattooing by establishing sanitation and infection control procedures tattoo artists and permanent color technologists must follow to maintain a Tattooing Permit issued by the Department through local health departments.  Visit their website to learn more about rules and general statutes as well as health tips from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Apply for a Permit

All new and existing tattoo artists must submit an application each year to obtain a tattoo permit. Each artist will be responsible for paying an annual fee of $250 at the time of application. 

Applications will not be processed until all applicable fees have been collected. After submitting your application, please contact our office phone or visit in person to remit payment. Please note that payments are accepted until 4:00 pm each business day. 

How to Apply

There are two ways to apply:

1. Download the Tattoo Permit Application (PDF)
2. Request an application in person at the Environmental Health office 

All paper application can be submitted by email, fax, or in person. Payment can be made in person or by calling the main office line. 

Temporary, Guest, or Event Permits

For temporary, guest, or event permits, a $100 application fee is required. Applications for these events must be fully completed - including payment - and submitted at least five business days prior to the event start date. 

After submitting your application, please contact our office phone or visit in person to remit payment. Please note that payments are accepted until 4:00 pm each business day. 

Rules Governing Tattooing