Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Denver, CO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Denver, Denver County, Colorado.

$300 -- $1100 3–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Denver / Denver County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City and County of Denver — Business License

All businesses operating in Denver must obtain a Business License from the City and County of Denver. Apply online through Denver's Business Licensing Center. The license must be renewed annually.

$50–$200/year1–3 weeks (online application)
Official government source
2

City and County of Denver — Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy from Denver Community Planning and Development is required before opening. Contact at 720-865-2705.

$150–$700 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks
Official government source

Colorado State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Colorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology — Barber Shop License

All barber shops in Colorado must be licensed by the Colorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology (DORA). The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Colorado Revised Statutes Title 12, Article 155. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.

$25 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)
Official government source
2

Individual Barber License (per barber)

Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Colorado Barber License issued by the Office of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires completing an approved 1,000-hour barber program, passing written and practical exams.

$25 application fee per barber3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Colorado Sales Tax License

Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined sales tax rate in Denver is 8.81%.

$161–2 weeks (online application)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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