Barber Shop Permit Requirements in San Diego, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in San Diego, San Diego County, California.

$400 -- $1600 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 6 requirements

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

San Diego / San Diego County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate

All businesses operating within San Diego city limits must obtain a Business Tax Certificate from the City of San Diego Treasury Division. Barber shops are classified as personal services businesses. Apply online via the San Diego Business Portal.

$34–$125/year (based on number of employees and gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)
Official government source
2

City of San Diego Development Services — Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy is required to confirm the space is approved for personal services use. Contact San Diego Development Services at 619-446-5000.

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

California State Requirements

3 requirements
1

California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology — Barber Shop Establishment License

All barber shops in California must be licensed by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC). The establishment license requires an on-site inspection to verify compliance with California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 9. The shop must have proper sanitation equipment, plumbing, and all required tools. Apply via the BreEZe online system.

$50 application fee + $25 inspection fee (approximately)4–8 weeks (includes application processing and on-site inspection)
Official government source
2

Individual Barber License (per barber)

Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid California Barber License issued by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires 1,500 hours of education at a licensed barber school, passing written and practical exams administered by PSI Exams.

$55 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

California Seller's Permit

Required if your barber shop sells retail products. The combined sales tax rate in San Diego is 7.75%.

FreeImmediate to 1 week (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

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Track these permits automatically

Get deadline alerts and compliance monitoring for your barber shop in San Diego, CA. Never miss a renewal or face a surprise inspection.

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