Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Obtained free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists — Salon Establishment License

   All hair salons in Massachusetts must hold a Salon Establishment License issued by the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists (under the Division of Occupational Licensure). The salon must be inspected by a Board inspector before the license is issued.

   Official government source

   $150–$300 (initial application and license fee)·4–8 weeks

   $150–$300 (initial application and license fee)

   4–8 weeks

2. Massachusetts Cosmetologist License (Individual Stylists)

   Every stylist working in the salon must hold a valid Massachusetts Cosmetologist License from the Board of Registration of Cosmetologists. Requires completion of 1,000 hours of an approved cosmetology program and passing state board exams.

   Official government source

   $75–$150/license (per stylist)·4–8 weeks after exam

   $75–$150/license (per stylist)

   4–8 weeks after exam

3. Massachusetts Department of Revenue — Sales Tax Registration

   Hairdressing and personal care services are subject to Massachusetts sales tax at 6.25%. Register through MassTaxConnect before opening to collect and remit sales tax on services and retail product sales.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online via MassTaxConnect)

   Free

   Immediate (online via MassTaxConnect)

1. Boston Inspectional Services Department — Certificate of Occupancy

   Before opening a hair salon in Boston, a Certificate of Occupancy from the Boston Inspectional Services Department (ISD) is required, confirming the space meets building code requirements for personal service use. If tenant improvements are made, a building permit is required first.

   Official government source

   $150–$600·3–6 weeks

   $150–$600

   3–6 weeks

2. Boston Inspectional Services Department — Plumbing Permit

   Hair salons require plumbing connections for shampoo bowls and sinks. A Plumbing Permit from ISD is required for any new plumbing installation. Must be inspected and approved by the ISD plumbing inspector prior to use.

   Official government source

   $100–$400·2–4 weeks

   $100–$400

   2–4 weeks

3. City of Boston — Business Certificate (DBA)

   If operating under a trade name in Boston, file a Business Certificate with the Boston City Clerk's office under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110, Section 5. Renewed every 4 years.

   Official government source

   $65·Same day to 1 week

   $65

   Same day to 1 week

4. Boston Fire Department — Fire Safety Inspection

   Hair salons use flammable chemicals and must pass a fire safety inspection from the Boston Fire Department. Inspectors verify chemical storage compliance, fire extinguisher placement, and exit signage. Required before opening.

   Official government source

   $50–$150·1–3 weeks

   $50–$150

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Massachusetts Board of Registration of Cosmetologists
• Boston Inspectional Services Department
• Boston City Clerk — Business Certificate
• MassTaxConnect

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