Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Philadelphia, PA
Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Philadelphia / Philadelphia County Requirements
5 requirementsCommercial Activity License
Issued by the Philadelphia Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I), this is the foundational business license required for operating a tattoo parlor in Philadelphia. All commercial establishments must hold this license.
Body Art Establishment License
Issued by the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, this license is required for any establishment performing tattooing, body piercing, or permanent makeup. Requires facility inspection for sanitation, sterilization equipment, and compliance with Philadelphia health codes.
Certificate of Occupancy
Issued by Philadelphia L&I after a physical inspection of the premises. Required for tattoo parlors to confirm the space meets building safety codes, fire codes, and zoning requirements for health service establishments.
Plumbing Permit
Required from Philadelphia L&I for the installation of hand-washing sinks at each tattoo station, a requirement under Philadelphia health codes for body art facilities. Must be inspected and approved before opening.
Fire Inspection and Permit
Required from the Philadelphia Fire Department prior to opening. Ensures the establishment meets fire safety standards including proper egress, extinguisher placement, and compliance with the Philadelphia Fire Code.
Pennsylvania State Requirements
3 requirementsPA Body Art Facility Registration
The Pennsylvania Department of Health requires all body art facilities to register under the Body Art Facility Regulations (28 Pa. Code Ch. 23). Facilities must demonstrate proper sterilization procedures, hand hygiene practices, and safe waste disposal.
PA Tattoo Artist Registration
Individual tattoo artists must register with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Registration requires proof of completed bloodborne pathogen training and compliance with PA body art regulations. Each artist working in the studio must be registered.
PA Business Entity Registration
Required by the Pennsylvania Department of State for LLCs, corporations, and other formal business entities operating in Pennsylvania.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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