Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

$250 -- $1000 3–7 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: .

Nashville / Davidson County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Metropolitan Nashville — Business License (Metro Business Tax)

All businesses operating in Nashville-Davidson County with gross receipts over $3,000 must obtain a standard Business License from the Metro Nashville Finance Department. Apply online through the Tennessee Taxpayer Access Point (TNTAP).

$15 (minimal) to $100/year (standard, based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)
Official government source
2

Metro Nashville — Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy from Metro Nashville Codes Administration is required before opening a barber shop. Contact Codes Administration at 615-862-6560.

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

Tennessee State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners — Barber Shop License

All barber shops in Tennessee must be licensed by the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Tennessee Code Annotated Title 62, Chapter 3. 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 Tennessee Master Barber License issued by the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. This requires completing an approved 1,500-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam.

$50 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Tennessee Sales Tax Registration

Required for selling retail products. The combined sales tax rate in Nashville/Davidson County is 9.25%.

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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