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Tattoo Parlor

Required State License(s): Public Act 375 passed December 22, 2010 requires a yearly Body Art Facility License issued by the Michigan Department of Community Health to perform body modifications of tattooing, branding and piercing.  Public Act 375 does exempt the practice of ear piercing from licensure. Permanent Cosmetic Makeup also requires a State of Michigan Body Art Facility License.

Information on the application process and the requirements needed to assure compliance to PA 375 can be obtained by visiting the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Health Body Art Facility Program at www.michigan.gov/bodyart or contacting the Body Art Facility Licensing Program Coordinator, Michael Kucab at 517-335-8165.

Other Licenses: Some cities/townships (county health department) do regulate this type of business. Contact the local city/township clerk's office for any ordinance or permit that regulates this type of business.

Public Health Code, Act 368 of 1978, Section 333.13104 states: (1) An individual shall not tattoo, brand, or perform body-piercing on a minor unless the individual obtains the prior written informed consent of the minor's parents or legal guardian. (2) An individual shall not tattoo, brand, or perform body-piercing on another individual if the other individual is under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a controlled substance. For purposes of this section, "minor" does not include a minor who is emancipated pursuant to Section 4 of Act No. 293 of the Public Acts of 1968, being Section 722.4 of the Michigan Compiled Laws. Section 333.1303 states: (1) A person who violates Section 13102 is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for not more than 90 days, or a fine of not more than $500, or both, for each violation. (2) Violation of Section 13102 is liable in a civil action for actual damages or $1,000, whichever is greater, plus reasonable court costs and attorney fees.

Tattoo parlors and body piercing must register and meet requirements under the Medical Waste Regulatory Act (MWRA) if producing sharps or any other medical waste as defined by the MWRA. Contact Andrew Shannon at 517-230-9800 , Waste and Hazardous Materials Division, at 517-241-1320 or email MedicalWaste@michigan.gov for an application and more information. Medical waste program information is also at http://www.michigan.gov/deqmedwaste

Creation/Revision Date:
August 13, 2012 / June 2, 2019