Ear-piercing, electrolysis, acupuncture and tattooists

If you offer ear-piercing, electrolysis, acupuncture or tattooing you will need a licence. This is under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982.

The licence is for the premises where the activity is carried out and each person who is a practitioner.

You must display a valid licence at the premises where the services and treatments are being offered.

Apply for a ear-piercing, electrolysis, acupuncture and tattooists licence

You will need to download the form from the related documents section, complete it and return it with supporting documents and your payment.

You can use this form to renew your licence too. We must receive your renewal application before the current licence expires.

There is a separate form for changes to an existing licence. You can download it from this page, complete and return it to us.

You can upload your completed application and pay online or send the form by post

After 40 working days of us receiving your application and carrying out a premises inspection, receiving your documents and payment you can assume the licence has been granted and tacit consent applies.

How much will it cost?

A new licence costs £147 for the premises, and £97 per practitioner.

A copy of the licence will cost £5.

You can pay for your licence online using a debit or credit card 

Pay for your licence

Other ways to contact us about ear-piercing, electrolysis, acupuncture & tattooists licences

If you have questions about the licence or applying you can contact us by:

• email: mstandanimals@ashfield.gov.uk
• telephone:01623 457184