Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

Updated 2026-02-15 8 stops $500–$1,800 est. 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits
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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

2 stops

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (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

State of Massachusetts

3 stops

  1. Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology and Barbering — Salon License

    All nail salons in Massachusetts must be licensed by the Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (under the Division of Professional Licensure). The salon establishment license requires an application, proof of location, and an on-site inspection to verify compliance with 239 CMR (Board of Cosmetology regulations). Nail technicians performing services must be individually licensed.

    Official government source

    $100 application fee (approximately)4–8 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 Massachusetts Manicurist License issued by the Board of Cosmetology and Barbering. This requires 100 hours of manicuring education at an approved school, plus a written exam. All staff licenses must be displayed in the salon.

    Official government source

    $51 application fee per technician4–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exam)

  3. Massachusetts Sales Tax Registration

    Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (MassTaxConnect). The Massachusetts state sales tax rate is 6.25%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Boston / Suffolk County

3 stops

  1. City of Boston — Certificate of Registration (Business Certificate / DBA)

    Businesses operating under a trade name in Boston must file a Business Certificate (DBA) with the Boston City Clerk. This is required for any business not operating under the owner's full legal name. Valid for 4 years.

    Official government source

    $65Same day (in person at City Hall) to 1 week

  2. City of Boston Inspectional Services — Certificate of Occupancy

    Nail salons must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from Boston Inspectional Services confirming the space is approved for personal services use and meets building and fire codes. New build-outs or change of use require a building permit first.

    Official government source

    $100–$600 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

  3. Boston Public Health Commission — Health Establishment Permit

    Nail salons in Boston are required to obtain a Health Establishment Permit from the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC). This covers sanitation standards, ventilation requirements, and chemical handling. An inspection is conducted before the permit is issued.

    Official government source

    $100–$300/year2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $500–$1,800 · 5–10 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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