Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Columbus, OH

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio.

$250 -- $1000 3–7 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

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

Columbus / Franklin County Requirements

1 requirement
1

City of Columbus — Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy from the Columbus Division of Building and Zoning Services is required before opening a barber shop. This confirms the space is zoned and built for personal services use. Contact the Division at 614-645-7433.

$100–$500 (varies by scope of work)2–5 weeks
Official government source

Ohio State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board — Barber Shop License

All barber shops in Ohio must be licensed by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4709. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.

$50 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 Ohio Barber License issued by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. This requires 1,800 hours of barber school education, plus a written and practical exam.

$25 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Ohio Sales Tax Vendor License

Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined sales tax rate in Columbus/Franklin County is 7%.

$251–2 weeks
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

Get your personalized permit checklist

Find out exactly which permits and licenses your barber shop needs in Columbus, OH — with costs, timelines, and official links.

Get Your Permit Report — $9.99
Ready in ~60 seconds Secure payment via Stripe Official links & citations

Related Guides

Stop guessing about permits

Know exactly what permits your business needs

Get a personalized permit report with every license, registration, and permit required for your business — with costs, timelines, and official application links.

Get Your Permit Report — $9.99
Ready in ~60 seconds Secure payment via Stripe 50 states, 4,000+ jurisdictions