Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Austin, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Austin, Travis County, Texas.

$352 -- $774 4–8 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections 6 requirements

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

Austin / Travis County Requirements

2 requirements
1

Certificate of Occupancy

Required before occupying a commercial space as a hair salon in Austin. Issued by the City of Austin Development Services Department. A new CO or change-of-use permit is required when opening in a new space or changing from a prior use. Salons with chemical services may require additional ventilation review.

$200–$600 depending on square footage and scope of improvements2–4 weeks after application and inspection
Official government source
2

Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Travis County

Required if you operate your salon under any name other than your own legal name. Filed with the Travis County Clerk's Office. Valid for 10 years.

$24 (single owner; $0.50 per additional owner)Same day
Official government source

Texas State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Texas TDLR Cosmetology Establishment License

Required by Texas law for any business location where cosmetology services (including hair cutting, coloring, and styling) are performed. Issued by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The license is specific to the physical location and must be renewed every two years. All owners must be listed on the application. The establishment must meet equipment and sanitation requirements set by TDLR.

$78 (every 2 years)2–4 weeks after submitting application and passing inspection
Official government source
2

Texas TDLR Cosmetology Operator License (per stylist)

Each individual cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid Texas Cosmetology Operator license from TDLR. Requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology school training and passing a state exam. Salon owners who also provide services must hold this license. Must be renewed every two years.

$50 application fee; $53 renewal (every 2 years)2–4 weeks after passing state exam
Official government source
3

Texas Sales Tax Permit

Required for collecting and remitting sales tax on taxable services and retail products sold at the salon. Hair services in Texas are taxable. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

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