Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Denver, CO
Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Denver, Denver County, Colorado.
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 stopEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online application)
Free
Immediate (online application)
State of Colorado
3 stopsColorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology — Barber Shop License
All barber shops in Colorado must be licensed by the Colorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology (DORA). The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Colorado Revised Statutes Title 12, Article 105 (Barber and Cosmetologist Act). The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.
Official government source$25 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)
$25 application fee
3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)
Individual Barber License (per barber)
Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Colorado Barber License issued by the Office of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires completing an approved 1,000-hour barber program, passing written and practical exams.
Official government source$25 application fee per barber3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
$25 application fee per barber
3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Colorado Sales Tax License
Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined sales tax rate in Denver is 8.81%.
Official government source$161–2 weeks (online application)
$16
1–2 weeks (online application)
City of Denver / Denver County
2 stopsCity and County of Denver — Business License
All businesses operating in Denver must obtain a Business License from the City and County of Denver. Apply online through Denver's Business Licensing Center. The license must be renewed annually.
Official government source$50–$200/year1–3 weeks (online application)
$50–$200/year
1–3 weeks (online application)
City and County of Denver — Certificate of Occupancy
A Certificate of Occupancy from Denver Community Planning and Development is required before opening. Contact at 720-865-2705.
Official government source$150–$700 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks
$150–$700 (varies by scope of work)
2–6 weeks
Terminus
Open for business — est. $300–$1,100 · 3–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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