Massage Therapy Business Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a massage therapy business in Seattle, King County, Washington.

$400 -- $1500 6–12 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 5 requirements

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

Seattle / King County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Seattle Business License Tax Certificate

All businesses operating in Seattle must obtain a Business License Tax Certificate from the Seattle Office of Finance. The fee is based on gross business income. Annual renewal required.

$55–$2,000+/year (based on gross income; minimum $55 for businesses under $100,000 gross)1–2 weeks (online)
Official government source
2

Seattle Zoning / Certificate of Occupancy

Commercial locations must comply with Seattle zoning for personal services (NC, C, or MU zones). A Certificate of Occupancy may be required for new commercial tenants. Contact Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI).

$100–$5002–4 weeks
Official government source

Washington State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Washington State Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) License

Washington requires massage therapists to be licensed by the Washington State Department of Health. Requirements include 500 hours of approved education, passing the MBLEx exam, and a background check. Licenses expire every year on the practitioner's birthday.

$75 (application fee) + $100–$200 (MBLEx exam fee)4–8 weeks
Official government source
2

Washington Business License (UBI)

All businesses operating in Washington State must register with the Washington State Department of Revenue to get a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number and Business License. Register through Washington's Business Licensing Service.

$19 (initial filing fee)1–2 weeks
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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