Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN
Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Nashville / Davidson County Requirements
4 requirementsMetro Nashville Business Tax License
Required for all businesses operating within Metro Nashville-Davidson County. Issued by the Metro Nashville Finance Department. Tattoo studios must obtain this license before opening to the public.
Metro Nashville Public Health Body Art Establishment Permit
Required for all tattoo and body art establishments in Nashville-Davidson County. Issued by the Metro Public Health Department. The permit requires passing a sanitation inspection verifying compliance with sterilization, biohazard disposal, and hygiene standards before the studio can operate.
Certificate of Occupancy
Required before opening a tattoo studio in a commercial space in Nashville. Issued by Metro Nashville Codes Administration. The studio must meet zoning requirements for personal service establishments and pass fire safety inspection.
Fire Safety Inspection
Required before obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy for a tattoo studio in Nashville. The Nashville Fire Marshal inspects the premises for proper exits, fire extinguishers, and compliance with fire codes for personal service establishments.
Tennessee State Requirements
3 requirementsTennessee Department of Health Body Art Establishment Registration
Tattoo establishments must register with the Tennessee Department of Health in addition to obtaining local permits. The state registration ensures compliance with TCA 62-38 (the Tennessee Body Art Act), which sets minimum sanitation and safety standards statewide.
Tennessee Tattoo Artist Registration
Each individual tattoo artist working in the studio must be registered with the Tennessee Department of Health. Registration requires proof of bloodborne pathogen training and compliance with personal hygiene and sanitation requirements under the Tennessee Body Art Act.
Tennessee Secretary of State Business Registration
Required if operating as an LLC, corporation, or partnership in Tennessee. Protects your business name and establishes your legal entity in the state.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
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