Tattoo, piercing and electrolysis registration

If you wish to carry out the following types of skin piercing and cosmetic treatments, you will need to register with the council:

•  Acupuncture
• Tattooing
• Ear-piercing
• Electrolysis

This is covered by The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 Part VIII.  The Act requires registration to cover both the person carrying on the practice and the premises used for that purpose. Practice is controlled through compliance with byelaws in each case.

Electrolysis or acupuncture under the control of a doctor is exempt.

A registration certificate will only be issued if the required conditions are met.

At present, there are currently no licensing controls for body piercing, forms of alternative medicine, beauty treatment or massage; however such establishments are likely to come within the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act.  For more information, see our health and safety pages. 

Each type of registration will cover the business at that address, although a registered person may occasionally operate at other premises. 

To register, please complete the relevant application form on the right and send to the food and safety team.  Please include a copy of your qualification certificate and the appropriate fee. 

Public consultation

There are proposed new byelaws out for consultation to the public. Please email any comments to foodandsafety@southandvale.gov.uk