Body Art
All Tattoo Studios and Body Piercing Studios are required to obtain a Health Permit and undergo annual inspections in accordance with West Virginia law. In addition, all body art facilities are required to adhere to the state's Infectious Medical Waste Rule.
Tattoo Studio Applications
Tattoo Studio's are expected to operate in accordance with the requirements outlined in Chapter 16 Article 38 of West Virginia's Public Health Code. Additionally, every studio must have an Infectious Medical Waste Managment Plan for Small Generators and obtain a West Virginia Business License. To obtain or renew a permit for a temporary Tattoo Studio, please submit the following:
- SG-49 Application for Permit to Operate
- An Application for Environmental Health Permit
- Annual Permit Fee
In addition to the above documentation, new studios should also submit an Infectious Medical Waste Management Plan.
Body Piercing Studio Applications
Body piercing studios are required to undergo a thorough plan review before they can apply for a permit. Please note that piercing studios MUST have a separate room for autoclaving. Applications for plan reviews should be submitted to the Health Department at least 45 days prior to beginning the construction, remodeling or conversion of a body piercing studio. For more information on Body Piercing Studio requirements, please refer to 64 CSR 80 BODY PIERCING STUDIO BUSINESS. To apply for a plan review, please submit the following to the Health Department:
- SG-86 Piercing Studio Plan Review
- Floor plan
- Fees for Services Invoice
- Infectious Medical Waste Management Plan
- A written Exposure Control Plan
- Plan Review payment (one-time fee)
All piercers must also attend an approved Exposure Control Training course and register with the state as a Certified Body Piercing Technician. To register, please visit the Department of Health Website for Body Piercing Studio Information.
Once your plan review has been approved and your piercers are registered, you may apply for a permit to operate. To do so, please submit:
- SG-49 Application for Permit to Operate
- An Application for Environmental Health Permit
- Copies of the Certificates of Registration for each piercer
- Annual Permit Fee
Inspections
Body art facilities are routinely inspected on an annual basis by the Health Department.