If you own a business which carries out tattooing, cosmetic piercing, skin colouring or electrolysis, you will need to apply for a licence. Both the person performing the treatment and the premises must be licensed with the Local Authority.

Licences are issued under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982.

The licence will be issued subject to compliance with licence conditions and payment of the licence fee.

Eligibility Criteria

Applications must include any information required by the Local Authority. Fees will be payable for applications and conditions may be attached. The fee is based upon an application and operating fee. Should the application not be granted, you will be refunded half the fee. If you require any assistance throughout the application process, please contact us using the details below.

Regulation Summary

A summary of the regulation relating to this licence

Application Evaluation Process

No provision in legislation.

Will Tacit Consent Apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the Authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact us.

Apply online

The EU Services Directive took effect in late December 2009 with an aim to open up the European Internal Market to cross-border trade in services. There is a requirement for Local Authorities to make certain licensing processes available online.

An online portal, "EUGO", has been established so that service providers can source information with regards to doing business within Europe. In the UK, the portal is called UK Welcomes and is hosted by Gov.UK.

Apply for a costmetic piercing, tattooing, skin colouring or electrolysis licence
Apply for a vary an existing licence

Failed Application Redress

Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

Licence Holder Redress

Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

Consumer Complaint

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by yourself, preferably in the form of a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked and if you are located in the UK, Citizen's Advice will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Other Redress

Please contact Epsom & Ewell Borough Council in the first instance.

Trade Associations

British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC)
British Association of Skin Camouflage (BASC) 
British Institute and Association of Electrolysis (BIAE)
Guild of Professional Beauty Therapists