Skin Piercing/Tattoing/Cosmetic Piercing

The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 requires the following types of skin piercing to be registered with the Council  

• Acupuncture
• Tattooing
• Ear-piercing
• Electrolysis
• Semi-Permanent skin-colouring (including micro pigmentation, semi-permanent make up and temporary tattooing

The Act requires separate registration for both the person carrying on the practice and for 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 ear piercing, tattooing, acupuncture, electrolysis or semi-Permanent skin-colouring unless the registration has been formally approved. 
 
Once an application has been made, and the appropriate fee has been paid, an officer will undertake an inspection of the premises. During this inspection the officer will check that;

• the applicant is following good infection control procedures
• piercing is only undertaken by staff who are registered and have received adequate training
• premises and procedures are compliant with the byelaws
• health and safety requirements are complied with

If the officer considers the applicant's procedures and the premises are suitable, then registration will be approved.  Officers within Health Protection will be pleased to offer any advice or give any help if you are unsure as to how to meet these obligations.

Last Updated: 01/07/2011