Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

$400 -- $900 4-8 weeks 7 requirements

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

Nashville / Davidson County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Metro Nashville Business Tax License

Required for all businesses operating within Metro Nashville-Davidson County. Issued by the Metro Nashville Finance Department. Salons are classified as personal service businesses and fees are assessed on gross revenue.

$15-$100/year based on gross revenue1-2 weeks
Official government source
2

Metro Nashville Public Health Sanitation Inspection

Hair salons in Nashville must pass a sanitation inspection conducted by the Metro Public Health Department before opening. Inspectors verify compliance with sanitation standards for cosmetology establishments, including sterilization equipment and workstation cleanliness.

Included in business licensing process1-3 weeks to schedule and pass inspection
Official government source
3

Certificate of Occupancy

Required before opening a salon in a commercial space in Nashville. Issued by Metro Nashville Codes Administration. Verifies that the building meets safety, fire, and zoning requirements for the intended use.

$100-$500 depending on build-out scope2-6 weeks depending on construction/renovation needed
Official government source

Tennessee State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Tennessee Cosmetology Salon License

Required for all hair salons operating in Tennessee. Issued by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. The salon owner must apply for an establishment license separate from individual practitioner licenses.

$100-$200/year2-4 weeks after application and inspection
Official government source
2

Individual Cosmetologist License (per stylist)

Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a current Tennessee cosmetology license issued by the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. Requires completion of a state-approved cosmetology program and passing written and practical exams.

$50-$100/year per practitioner4-8 weeks to complete exam and receive license
Official government source
3

Tennessee Sales Tax Certificate

Required for retail sales of beauty products (shampoos, styling products, etc.) in the salon. Issued by the Tennessee Department of Revenue. Services may also be taxable; consult the Department of Revenue for current rules.

FreeImmediate (online registration)
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)
Official government source

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