Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Houston, Harris County, Texas.

Updated 2026-03-12 7 stops $1,172–$1,632 est. 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and pass state inspection
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Texas

3 stops

  1. Texas 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 are submitted online through the DSHS Regulatory Services Online Licensing System. DSHS inspects the studio before issuing the license, verifying compliance with sanitation, sterilization, infection control, waste disposal, and recordkeeping requirements under Chapter 146. License is valid for two years and is address-specific.

    Official government source

    $927 (2-year license)4–8 weeks after application and DSHS inspection

  2. OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)

    Each tattoo artist working at the studio must complete an OSHA-approved Bloodborne Pathogen training course and have documentation on file at the studio. This is a DSHS licensing requirement.

    Official government source

    $20–$80 per person (online course)4–8 hours (online)

  3. Texas Sales Tax Permit

    Required for collecting and remitting Texas sales tax on tattoo services and retail merchandise. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Houston / Harris County

3 stops

  1. Certificate of Occupancy

    Required before occupying a commercial space as a tattoo studio in Houston. Issued by the Houston Permitting Center (Building Code Enforcement). Required for first occupancy, change of occupancy classification, or new tenant. Tattoo studios typically fall under personal service use occupancy. Apply through the Houston Permitting Center's online CIVICS portal.

    Official government source

    $200–$500 depending on square footage and improvements2–4 weeks after application and inspection

  2. Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Harris County

    Required if operating the studio under any name other than your own legal name. Filed with the Harris County Clerk's Office. Valid for 10 years.

    Official government source

    $25 (approximately)Same day

  3. Written Local Health Authority Zoning Confirmation

    Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 146 requires tattoo studio applicants to obtain written confirmation from the local health authority confirming that tattooing is permitted at the proposed address. In Houston, this is obtained from the Harris County Public Health or the City of Houston Health Department, depending on location within the city limits.

    Official government source

    No fee (administrative process)1–2 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $1,172–$1,632 · 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and pass state inspection

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Official Sources

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