Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Detroit, MI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan.

Updated 2026-02-15 7 stops $350–$1,300 est. 4–8 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 Michigan

3 stops

  1. Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs — Cosmetology Salon License

    All nail salons in Michigan must be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Bureau of Professional Licensing. The cosmetology salon (manicuring shop) license requires an application, an on-site inspection, and compliance with the Michigan Occupational Code, Part 169. The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, and ventilation standards.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee3–6 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 Michigan Manicurist License issued by LARA. This requires completing an approved 400-hour manicurist program, passing a written exam.

    Official government source

    $25 application fee per technician3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exam)

  3. Michigan Sales Tax License

    Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Michigan Department of Treasury. The Michigan state sales tax rate is 6%.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Detroit / Wayne County

2 stops

  1. City of Detroit — Business License

    All businesses operating in Detroit must obtain a business license from the City of Detroit's Buildings, Safety Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED). Nail salons are classified as personal services businesses. Apply online through the Detroit Business License portal.

    Official government source

    $150–$400/year1–3 weeks

  2. City of Detroit — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from BSEED is required to confirm the space is approved for personal services use. New build-outs require a building permit, inspection, and CO issuance. Contact BSEED at 313-224-3158.

    Official government source

    $100–$500 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $350–$1,300 · 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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