Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Miami, FL

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. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation — Cosmetology Salon License

   All nail salons in Florida must be licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), Board of Cosmetology. The salon license (Full Cosmetology Salon or Specialty Salon — Nail) requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Florida Statutes Chapter 477 and Florida Administrative Code Rule 61G5. The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, ventilation, and facility standards.

   Official government source

   $50 application fee·3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

   $50 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 Florida Nail Specialist License issued by DBPR. This requires completing an approved 240-hour nail specialist program, passing a written and practical exam administered by Pearson VUE.

   Official government source

   $45 application fee per technician·3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

   $45 application fee per technician

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

3. Florida Sales Tax Certificate of Registration

   Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Florida Department of Revenue. The Florida state sales tax rate is 6%, with Miami-Dade County adding a 1% discretionary surtax for a total of 7%.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. City of Miami — Local Business Tax Receipt

   All businesses operating within City of Miami limits must obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt (formerly an Occupational License) from the City of Miami Finance Department. This is renewed annually and is required before opening. Apply through the Miami Online Business Services portal or in person at 444 SW 2nd Ave.

   Official government source

   $75–$400/year (varies by business type and gross receipts)·1–2 weeks

   $75–$400/year (varies by business type and gross receipts)

   1–2 weeks

2. Miami-Dade County — Local Business Tax Receipt (County Level)

   In addition to the city license, businesses in Miami must obtain a Miami-Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt. Contact Miami-Dade County Tax Collector at 305-270-4966.

   Official government source

   $50–$150/year·1–2 weeks

   $50–$150/year

   1–2 weeks

3. City of Miami Building Department — Certificate of Occupancy

   A Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Miami Building Department is required before opening a nail salon. The CO confirms the space is approved for personal services use. Contact at 305-416-1180.

   Official government source

   $150–$600 (varies by scope of work)·2–6 weeks

   $150–$600 (varies by scope of work)

   2–6 weeks

Official Sources

• Florida DBPR — Cosmetology
• City of Miami — Business Tax
• Miami-Dade County Tax Collector — Business Tax
• Florida Department of Revenue — Sales Tax

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