Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Los Angeles, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California.

$400 -- $1200 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses (longer if major buildout required) 7 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 13, 2026.

Los Angeles / Los Angeles County Requirements

3 requirements

City of Los Angeles Business Tax Registration Certificate

Required for all businesses operating in the City of Los Angeles. Hair salons are classified under the personal services category. New businesses qualify for a first-year exemption if gross receipts are under $100,000. Renewed annually.

$0 (first year new business exemption); $100+ annually based on gross receipts1–2 weeks (online application)

Official government source

Certificate of Occupancy (Change of Use / New Tenant)

Required by the LA Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) before occupying a commercial space as a salon. A new Certificate of Occupancy or clearance letter is required when opening in a new space or when there is a change of use.

$175–$600+ depending on scope of work and square footage3–8 weeks after application and inspection

Official government source

LA City Building Permit (for salon improvements)

Any tenant improvements to the salon space — plumbing for shampoo bowls, electrical upgrades, ventilation — require building permits from the LA Department of Building and Safety.

Varies by scope (typically $500–$10,000+)4–10 weeks

Official government source

California State Requirements

3 requirements

California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology — Salon Establishment License

Required by California law (Business & Professions Code §7392) before any cosmetology, hair, or esthetics services can be performed for compensation. Issued by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (DCA). The license is location-specific. A physical inspection of the salon is conducted before the license is issued. Renewed every 2 years.

$50 (establishment license fee)4–8 weeks after submitting application and passing inspection

Official government source

California Cosmetologist License (per cosmetologist)

Each cosmetologist working in the salon must hold a valid California Cosmetologist license from the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. Requires completing a 1,600-hour cosmetology program and passing the state board exam. Renewed every 2 years.

$50 (initial license fee); $50 (renewal every 2 years)4–8 weeks after passing state board exam

Official government source

California Seller's Permit

Required to collect and remit California state sales tax on retail product sales (hair products, styling tools). Hair services are generally not subject to sales tax; product sales are taxable. Issued free by the CDTFA.

FreeImmediate (online registration)

Official government source