What Permits Do You Need to Open a Nail Salon?

So, you’re ready to open your own nail salon...go you! You’ve built your skills, grown your clientele, and now it’s time to make the leap into salon ownership. But before you set up your polish wall and start booking appointments, there's one very important step you can’t skip: getting the right permits. Opening a nail salon takes more than just talent and a great location. It involves several legal and regulatory requirements that ensure your business is compliant, safe, and ready for success. So, while you’re building out your solid business plan, make sure you have the necessary permits built into your timeline. This guide will walk you through the necessary permits and licenses you’ll need to open your nail salon the right way.

Cosmetology or Nail Technician License

If you’re doing nails professionally, whether you’re the salon owner or a nail technician, you must have a valid state-issued cosmetology or nail technician license. This certifies you’ve completed the required education and passed your state board exam on topics like nail care, sanitation, and infection control. It’s the first step in protecting both your clients and your business.

How to Acquire a Cosmetology License:

Visit your state’s Board of Cosmetology website to apply. You’ll typically need to complete an approved training program, pass written and practical exams, and submit an application fee. For example, in California, you apply through the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Both nail salon owners and nail technicians are required to obtain the appropriate licenses to operate legally.

Business License

A business license is a must-have for any nail salon owner looking to legally operate and build a reputable business. This license not only registers your nail salon with your local requirements but also demonstrates your commitment to following local laws and regulations and allows you to operate and pay local taxes. Without it, you could face fines or be forced to shut down. Each city or county has its own rules, but this license is required no matter where your salon is located, whether you’re renting a suite or working from home. The cost of a business license can vary depending on your state and city, typically ranging from $50 to $500. Getting a business license will also protect your personal assets by separating your business activities from your personal finances.

How to Acquire a Business License:

Go to your city or county’s website and search for “business license application” to obtain a business license. You’ll likely need to provide your business name, address, salon ownership details, and pay a fee. You can also visit city hall in person to apply.

Seller’s Permit

Are you planning to sell nail products in your salon like cuticle oils, nail polish, or hand creams? You'll need a seller’s permit (also known as a sales tax permit) to legally sell goods and collect sales tax on products like nail polish and other retail items. Even if your nail services aren’t taxed in your state, product sales usually are. This permit is especially important if you’re adding retail to boost your revenue.

How to Acquire a Seller’s Permit:

Apply through your state’s Department of Revenue or Tax and Fee Administration. Most applications are available online. You’ll need your business information and a valid EIN or Social Security number. In California, for example, you can apply through the CDTFA website.

Zoning Permits

Before you sign a lease or open your doors, make sure your salon is zoned for commercial use specifically for personal care services in your state and local jurisdiction. A zoning permit ensures your space is legally approved for the kind of business you plan to run. If your space isn’t zoned correctly, you could be denied the right to open or face restrictions later.

How to Acquire a Zoning Permit:

Contact your city’s Planning or Zoning Department. Submit your business address and salon plans to confirm that the area is zoned for a nail salon. If it’s not, you may need to apply for a zoning variance or find another location.

Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy (CO) is proof that your salon location meets local building codes and is safe for public use. This is often required before you can officially open your doors to clients. Even if you’re leasing a commercial space, you may still need your own CO to show that the space is suitable for a nail salon.

How to Acquire a Certificate of Occupancy:

Apply through your city or county’s building department. You’ll need to schedule an inspection, submit documentation (like your lease or floor plan), and pay a fee. Once you pass the inspection, you’ll receive your certificate.

Health and Safety Permit

Cleanliness and sanitation are non-negotiable in the nail industry. A health and safety permit verifies that your salon complies with hygiene regulations, including proper sterilization of nail tools, safe waste disposal, and ventilation standards. This permit is often issued by local health departments after an inspection and is essential to running a safe and trusted business.

How to Acquire a Health and Safety Permit:

Visit your local health department’s website or office. You may need to submit your salon layout, sanitation protocols, and equipment list, then schedule an inspection. In some counties, you must also complete a voluntary certification of sanitation training before applying.

Health Inspection Permit

Separate from your initial health permit, a health inspection permit confirms your nail salon passes regular or surprise health inspections from your local health officers. Regular health inspections are an ongoing requirement for maintaining your permit. This ensures your practices remain in compliance over time, rather than just when you first open. It’s often required on an annual basis or after major renovations. Passing health inspections and maintaining compliance are part of the ongoing expenses of running a nail salon.

How to Acquire a Health Inspection Permit:

Contact your county or city’s Environmental Health Department. You’ll complete an application and submit details like your floor plan, equipment specs, and cleaning procedures. After a walkthrough inspection, you’ll receive documentation showing your salon passed and is approved for operation.

Additional Permits to Consider

Depending on your location and how your nail salon operates, you may also need these additional permits:

Signage Permit: If you’re putting up an exterior sign, you may need a permit that regulates size, lighting, and placement. Apply through your city’s planning or building department and submit your signage design for approval.
Building Permit: Doing construction, plumbing or electrical upgrades? A building permit ensures renovations are up to code. Work with a licensed contractor to submit plans to the city’s building department before any construction begins.
Employer Identification Number (EIN): IF you’re hiring employees, this is required to file payroll taxes and operate legally as an employer. Apply for free through the IRS website.

From Paperwork to Polish, You’re Almost There!

Opening a nail salon takes more than polish and patience. It requires planning, paperwork, and a commitment to doing things the right way. By securing these essential permits and licenses, you’re building a strong foundation for your business and showing clients that your salon is clean, safe and fully legit.

Once you’re ready to open, Vagaro can help you manage everything from bookings, payments, reviews, and marketing. We’re here to support you every step of the way—from your first permit to your first fully booked week.

You’ve got the skills, vision, and now the know-how. Let’s make that dream nail salon a reality!