Skin Piercing and Tattooing

Anyone who carries on a business of skin piercing (tattooing, ear piercing, acupuncture or any type of body piercing or electrolysis) requires a licence.

Do I need a Licence?
Yes, if you carry on  a business of skin piercing (tattooing, ear piercing, acupuncture or any type of body piercing or electrolysis) in Edinburgh.

A licence is not required if the skin piecing activity is carried out by a regulated health care professional (such as the General Medical Council, the General Dental Council, the General Optical Council, the General Osteopathic Council and the General Chiropractic Council.

Are you eligible to apply?
Any person may make an application for a Skin Piercing/Tattooist Licence.

How do I Apply?
Applicants must complete the application form and submit it to the Licensing Section along with the correct fee. You can also make and pay for an application on-line at ELMS.  

An application must be:

• In writing (including electronically)
• Be signed by the applicant (including digital signature)

Applicants must also:

• Put up a site notice at or near the premises for 21 days beginning on the date the application is submitted to the Council. After the notice has been up for 21 days the applicant must sign the declaration at the foot of the notice and return it to the Council 

What does it cost?
Fee List - fees are non refundable.  

What information do I need to provide?
The information requested on the application form and the appropriate fee.  

How is the application dealt with?
On receipt of the application form, accompanied by the appropriate fee, a copy of the application form will be sent to the Chief Constable, and two council departments - City Development and Services for Communities.  

The authority will keep a record electronically of receipt of the application, the final decision, reasons for the decision, details of the terms of the licence and a record of any suspensions, variations of terms and surrender of licence.