Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Seattle, King County, Washington.

$450 -- $1600 4–9 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 7 requirements

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

Seattle / King County Requirements

3 requirements
1

City of Seattle — Business License Tax Certificate

All businesses operating in Seattle must obtain a Business License Tax Certificate from Seattle License and Tax Administration. Annual renewal required.

$110/year (base fee; additional charges based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)
Official government source
2

City of Seattle — Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy from the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) is required before opening. Contact SDCI at 206-684-8600.

$200–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks
Official government source
3

Public Health — Seattle & King County — Cosmetology Establishment Permit

Barber shops in King County must obtain a Cosmetology Establishment Permit from Public Health — Seattle & King County. This includes a pre-opening sanitation and equipment inspection. Contact at 206-263-9566.

$200–$400/year2–4 weeks
Official government source

Washington State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Washington State Department of Licensing — Barber Shop License

All barber shops in Washington State must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), Cosmetology Unit (which covers barbering). The shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with RCW Chapter 18.16 and WAC Chapter 308-20.

$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 Washington State Barber License issued by DOL. This requires completing an approved 1,000-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam.

$60 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Washington State Business License

Most businesses operating in Washington must obtain a State Business License through the Washington Department of Revenue. Apply through the My DOR portal.

$19 (one-time)Immediate (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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