Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Lexington, KY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $200–$800 est. 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses
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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 or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Kentucky

2 stops

  1. State Barber License (per barber)

    Each barber must hold a valid Kentucky Barber License. Requires 1,500 hours (or equivalent) of barber school and passing the state barber board exam.

    Official government source

    $40–$100 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. Kentucky Department of Revenue — Sales and Use Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or certain services in Kentucky. Kentucky charges a flat 6% state sales tax with no local sales taxes (most transactions). Certain services including telecommunications, digital products, and some repair services are also taxable. Register online with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via Kentucky One Stop Business Portal)

City of Lexington / Fayette County

2 stops

  1. Kentucky Board of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists — Barber Shop License

    Barber shops in Kentucky must be licensed by the state cosmetology/barber board. The shop must pass an inspection before the license is issued. Annual or biennial renewal required.

    Official government source

    $50–$80 (initial)3–6 weeks after application and inspection

  2. Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government — Revenue Division — Business License

    Lexington (Fayette Urban County) requires an Occupational License for all businesses. The Revenue Division issues and renews annual licenses based on business type and payroll. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

    Official government source

    $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $200–$800 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

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Official Sources

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