Acupuncture, Piercing, Electrolysis and Tattoo Registration 

Introduction

It is necessary for both the premises used for the piercing and the person carrying out the piercing to be registered with the Council. There is an exemption from registration for anyone who is or is supervised by a registered medical practitioner or dentist.

At what age can a person request piercing/tattooing? 

There is no specific legislation covering this aspect. However, any piercing of male or female genital organs, including female breasts, carried out on a child under the age of 16 years would be regarded as an indecent assault because children of that age cannot give consent to such activities. The Tattooing of Minors Act 1969 makes it an offence to tattoo anyone under the age of 18 years.

These issues are enforced by the Police.

Where piercing is not prohibited by the above legislation it is in any case recommended that parental consent be obtained in writing in the case of persons under the age of 18 years. Proof of age should be sought if there is any uncertainty.

It is recommended that clients be encouraged to bring a friend for moral support and to prevent misunderstandings or allegations of impropriety, especially in the case of genital piercings.

Apply  for a licence

To apply for this licence please read our guidance and complete the application form.

Local Byelaws 

A number of local byelaws adopted under the terms of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 relating to skin piercing regarding hygiene also apply to body piercing, tattooing, acupuncture, electrolysis and micro-pigmentation. These may apply to your premises.

Please note that the documents in the following lists show the identity of the former District Council which created the byelaws. The byelaws remain in force.

Guidance documents

• Body Piercing – Guidance for Operators (PDF 1.07MB)
• Tattooing – Guidance for Operators (PDF 1.24MB)
• Micro-pigmentation – Guidance for Practitioners (PDF 956.95KB)
• COSHH Essentials SR12 Electrolysis, piercing, tattooing and micro-pigmentation (PDF 135.25KB)

Fees and charges 

Current fees and charges can be found at Fees and charging.