Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach (Independent City) County, Virginia.

$400 -- $900 4–8 weeks 8 requirements

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

Virginia Beach / Virginia Beach (Independent City) County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Virginia Beach BPOL License (Business, Professional, Occupational License)

Virginia Beach requires all businesses to obtain a BPOL license from the Commissioner of Revenue before operating. This license is unique to Virginia's independent city system and covers the local business operating authorization. The fee is calculated based on gross receipts with a minimum flat fee. Hair salons are classified under the professional/service business category. Must be renewed annually by March 1.

$50–$150/year (based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

Certificate of Occupancy

The Virginia Beach Department of Planning & Community Development requires a Certificate of Occupancy when opening a salon in a commercial space or making significant improvements. This ensures the space meets zoning requirements, building codes, and fire safety standards. A salon plumbing and ventilation inspection is typically part of the process.

$150–$500 (depending on scope of improvements)3–8 weeks
Official government source
3

Virginia Beach Health Department Sanitation Inspection

The Virginia Beach Health Department conducts sanitation inspections of cosmetology establishments to ensure compliance with Virginia sanitation standards, including proper disinfection procedures, ventilation, and equipment handling.

$50–$150 (inspection fee)2–4 weeks
Official government source

Virginia State Requirements

4 requirements
1

Virginia DPOR Cosmetology Salon License

The Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR) issues cosmetology salon licenses to hair salons statewide. A salon license is required in addition to individual cosmetologist licenses. The facility must comply with DPOR sanitation standards and pass an inspection before the license is issued.

$105–$165/year2–4 weeks
Official government source
2

Individual Cosmetologist Licenses (DPOR)

All cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, and other salon professionals working in Virginia must hold individual licenses issued by Virginia DPOR. Licenses require completion of an accredited cosmetology program and passing state board exams.

$55–$80/year per individual2–6 weeks
Official government source
3

Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) Business Registration

All formal business entities operating in Virginia must register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. An LLC is the most common structure for salon owners, costing approximately $100 to file with the SCC.

$100 (LLC filing fee)1–2 weeks
Official government source
4

Virginia Department of Taxation Sales Tax Registration

Hair salon services in Virginia may be subject to sales tax for certain services and retail product sales. Register with the Virginia Department of Taxation to obtain a sales tax certificate and properly collect and remit applicable taxes.

Free1 week
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)
Official government source

Official Sources

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