Barber Shop Permit Requirements in San Diego, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in San Diego, San Diego County, California.

Updated 2026-02-15 6 stops $400–$1,600 est. 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
Get my personalized route — $14.99

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

3 stops

  1. California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology — Barber Shop Establishment License

    All barber shops in California must be licensed by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC). The establishment license requires an on-site inspection to verify compliance with California Code of Regulations Title 16, Division 9. The shop must have proper sanitation equipment, plumbing, and all required tools. Apply via the BreEZe online system.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee + $25 inspection fee (approximately)4–8 weeks (includes application processing and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid California Barber License issued by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires 1,500 hours of education at a licensed barber school, passing written and practical exams administered by PSI Exams.

    Official government source

    $55 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. California Seller's Permit

    Required if your barber shop sells retail products. The combined sales tax rate in San Diego is 7.75%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate to 1 week (online application)

City of San Diego / San Diego County

2 stops

  1. City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate

    All businesses operating within San Diego city limits must obtain a Business Tax Certificate from the City of San Diego Treasury Division. Barber shops are classified as personal services businesses. Apply online via the San Diego Business Portal.

    Official government source

    $34–$125/year (based on number of employees and gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. City of San Diego Development Services — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy is required to confirm the space is approved for personal services use. Contact San Diego Development Services at 619-446-5000.

    Official government source

    $200–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $400–$1,600 · 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

Want this mapped to your exact business and structure, in filing order?

Get my personalized route — $14.99

Official Sources

Related Guides