Permanent Body Art Facility Information

How to Apply for a Permit

To obtain or permit to operate a body art facility, submit an application online through the MyEHS Portal and pay the applicable fees. A complete application will include:

1. Facility Site Plan, including a detailed overhead layout of the entire facility identifying the procedure area(s), storage area(s), equipment and reception area, workstation(s), hand wash sink(s), restroom(s), and decontamination and sterilization area (if applicable)
2. Body Art Room Finish and Materials list (see Resource Library below)
3. Body Art Facility Infection Prevention and Control Plan (see Resource Library below)
4. Proof of service for sharps hauler (e.g., service agreement contract)
5. Consent form
6. Medical questionnaire
8. Aftercare instructions
9 Proof of compliance with local business zoning requirements (e.g., business license)
10. Manufacturer’s cut-sheet for all sterilization equipment, if applicable (e.g., autoclave)

Once your application is complete, you will be scheduled for a plan check inspection. Once the application is approved, you will be issued a San Mateo County Body Art Facility Permit. You are required to prominently display the permit at your facilities. Permits are valid for one year and must be renewed annually to continue operations.

Enforcement

You may be subject to the following penalties for violations of the California Safe Body Art Act:

• Administrative fines up to $1,000.00 per violation.
• Permit and practitioner registration violations are subject to misdemeanor, suspension, modification, revocation and administrative fines up to 3x the cost of the permit or registration fee.
• Closure of the body art facility and temporary event.