Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Austin, TX
Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Austin, Travis County, Texas.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Austin / Travis County Requirements
3 requirementsCertificate of Occupancy
Required before occupying a commercial space as a tattoo studio in Austin. Issued by the City of Austin Development Services Department. Required for first occupancy, change of use, or new tenant. The space must comply with building and zoning codes for personal service use. Tattoo studios may also need to confirm zoning compliance for use as a body art establishment.
Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Travis County
Required if operating the studio under any name other than your own legal name. Filed with the Travis County Clerk's Office. Valid for 10 years.
Written Local Health Department Zoning Confirmation
Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 146 requires tattoo studio applicants to obtain written confirmation from the local health authority (Austin Public Health) verifying that tattooing is permitted at the proposed studio address. This is submitted with the state DSHS license application.
Texas State Requirements
3 requirementsTexas DSHS Tattoo Studio License
All tattoo studios in Texas must be licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) under Health and Safety Code Chapter 146. Applications must be submitted online through the DSHS Regulatory Services Online Licensing System. DSHS will inspect the studio before issuing the license to verify compliance with sanitation, sterilization, infection control, waste disposal, and recordkeeping requirements. The license is valid for two years and is tied to the studio address.
OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)
Each tattoo artist working in the studio must complete an OSHA-approved Bloodborne Pathogen training course. This is a requirement for the state DSHS studio license application. Certificates must be on file at the studio.
Texas Sales Tax Permit
Required for collecting and remitting Texas sales tax. Tattoo services are taxable in Texas. Retail merchandise sales (aftercare products, apparel) are also taxable. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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