Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Denver, CO

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

   Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).

   Official government source

   Free (compliance requirement)·Implement before opening

   Free (compliance requirement)

   Implement before opening

1. Colorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology — Cosmetology Salon License

   All nail salons in Colorado must be licensed by the Colorado Office of Barbering and Cosmetology (within the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — DORA). The salon/establishment license requires an application, an on-site inspection, and compliance with Colorado Revised Statutes Title 12, Article 105 (Barber and Cosmetologist Act). The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, and ventilation standards.

   Official government source

   $25 application fee·3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

   $25 application fee

   3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

2. Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)

   Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Colorado Nail Technician License issued by the Office of Barbering and Cosmetology. This requires completing an approved nail technology program (250+ hours), passing a written and practical exam.

   Official government source

   $25 application fee per technician·3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

   $25 application fee per technician

   3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

3. Colorado Sales Tax License

   Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Colorado Department of Revenue. The combined sales tax rate in Denver is 8.81%.

   Official government source

   $16·1–2 weeks (online application)

   $16

   1–2 weeks (online application)

1. City 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. Nail salons are classified under personal services. The license must be renewed annually.

   Official government source

   $50–$200/year·1–3 weeks (online application)

   $50–$200/year

   1–3 weeks (online application)

2. City and County of Denver — Certificate of Occupancy

   A Certificate of Occupancy from Denver Community Planning and Development is required before opening. This confirms the space meets zoning, building, and fire code requirements for personal services use. 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

Official Sources

• Colorado DORA — Office of Barbering and Cosmetology
• City and County of Denver — Business Licensing
• City and County of Denver — Community Planning and Development
• Colorado Department of Revenue — Sales Tax

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