Tattooing, Cosmetic Piercing, Acupuncture and Electrolysis Registration

The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 Part VIII requires businesses which carry out the following types of skin piercing to be registered with the Council.

• acupuncture
• tattooing
• cosmetic body piercing (including ear piercing)
• semi-permanent skin colouring
• electrolysis

The Act requires registration to cover both the person carrying on the practice and the premises used for that purpose. There are no powers to refuse registration, but the practice is controlled through compliance with byelaws in each case.

The applicant must ensure that the procedures, equipment and facilities used are safe, hygienic, prevent the spread of disease and comply fully with the general duty of care required by the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

It is illegal to conduct skin piercing, tattooing, acupuncture, electrolysis and semi-permanent skin colouring unless the registration has been formally approved and certification provided.

Once an application has been made and a fee paid, an inspector will undertake an inspection of the premises. If the inspector considers the applicant's procedures and the premises to be suitable, then registration will be approved.

The Inspector will also check compliance with the following bye-law requirements as well as ensuring that general health and safety requirements are being met. The inspector will be pleased to offer any advice or give any help if you are unsure as to how to meet these obligations.

Bye-laws requirements:

Copies of the relevant byelaws are attached.

How do I register?

Attached on the right are Application for Registration forms for both person and premises which should be printed, completed and returned to the address shown on the forms.

Further Information

The information sheets attached provide straightforward, printable information on the various types of skin piercing activities, and procedures you should follow.