Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Denver, CO
Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Denver, Denver County, Colorado.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Denver / Denver County Requirements
2 requirementsCity and County of Denver — Business License
All businesses operating in Denver must obtain a Business License from the City and County of Denver. Apply online through Denver's Business Licensing Center. Nail salons are classified under personal services. The license must be renewed annually.
City and County of Denver — Certificate of Occupancy
A Certificate of Occupancy from Denver Community Planning and Development is required before opening. This confirms the space meets zoning, building, and fire code requirements for personal services use. Contact at 720-865-2705.
Colorado State Requirements
3 requirementsColorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology — Cosmetology Salon License
All nail salons in Colorado must be licensed by the Colorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology (within the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — DORA). The salon/establishment license requires an application, an on-site inspection, and compliance with Colorado Revised Statutes Title 12, Article 155. The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, and ventilation standards.
Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)
Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Colorado Nail Technician License issued by the Office of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires completing an approved nail technology program (250+ hours), passing a written and practical exam.
Colorado Sales Tax License
Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Colorado Department of Revenue. The combined sales tax rate in Denver is 8.81%.
Federal Requirements
2 requirementsEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance
Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).
Track these permits automatically
Get deadline alerts and compliance monitoring for your nail salon in Denver, CO. Never miss a renewal or face a surprise inspection.
Start Tracking FreeOfficial Sources
Related Guides
Other business types in Denver, CO
Nail Salon in other cities
Track these permits automatically
Get deadline alerts and compliance monitoring for your nail salon in Denver, CO. Never miss a renewal or face a surprise inspection.
Start Tracking Free