Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Atlanta, GA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia.

$300 -- $1200 4–8 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: .

Atlanta / Fulton County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Atlanta Business License (Occupational Tax Certificate)

All businesses operating within Atlanta city limits must obtain an Occupational Tax Certificate from the City of Atlanta Department of Finance. This is renewed annually and is required before opening. Apply through the Atlanta Business Portal or in person at City Hall.

$75–$400/year (based on number of employees)1–3 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Atlanta / Fulton County — Certificate of Occupancy

If building out or renovating a new barber shop space, a building permit and Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Atlanta Office of Buildings is required.

$150–$600 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks
Official government source

Georgia State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers — Barber Shop License

All barber shops in Georgia must be licensed by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers under the Georgia Secretary of State's Professional Licensing Division. The barber shop establishment license requires an application, inspection, and proof of compliance with Georgia barber shop standards. The shop must meet sanitation and equipment requirements.

$45 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 Georgia Master Barber or Barber license issued by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. A Master Barber License requires 1,500 hours of barber school education, plus written and practical exams administered by PSI Exams.

$45 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Georgia Sales Tax Registration

Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined sales tax rate in Atlanta/Fulton County is up to 8%.

FreeImmediate (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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