Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Fargo, ND
Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Fargo, Cass County, North Dakota.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Key agencies and fees on this page were re-checked against official government sources on .
Federal — start here
1 stopEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official government sourceFreeImmediate (online application)
Free
Immediate (online application)
State of North Dakota
2 stopsNorth Dakota State Board of Cosmetology — Individual Cosmetologist License
Each cosmetologist must hold a valid North Dakota Cosmetologist License. Requires 1,500 hours of cosmetology school and passing the state board exam.
Official government sourceUp to $50 (initial license, statutory maximum per NDCC 43-11-28)4–8 weeks
Up to $50 (initial license, statutory maximum per NDCC 43-11-28)
4–8 weeks
North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner — Sales and Use Tax Permit
Required for any business selling taxable goods or services in North Dakota. The state sales tax rate is 5% for most retail sales, and cities and counties may levy additional local sales and use taxes that vary by location — check the Tax Commissioner’s local tax rate listings for your address. Apply for the permit in ND TAP, the state’s Taxpayer Access Point.
Official government sourceFreeApply through ND TAP at least 30 days before you open for business, as the Tax Commissioner advises.
Free
Apply through ND TAP at least 30 days before you open for business, as the Tax Commissioner advises.
City of Fargo / Cass County
2 stopsNorth Dakota State Board of Cosmetology — Salon License
All cosmetology salons in North Dakota must be licensed by the ND State Board of Cosmetology. An inspection is required before the license is issued.
Official government sourceUp to $150 (original establishment license, per NDCC 43-11-28); annual renewal up to $1003–6 weeks
Up to $150 (original establishment license, per NDCC 43-11-28); annual renewal up to $100
3–6 weeks
City of Fargo Occupational License (only for listed trades)
Fargo does not require a general business license. The city states: "The City does not require business licenses for every type of commerce; however, the Fargo Municipal Code does require a City license for the businesses listed below." The licensed categories are specific trades and regulated businesses — excavator, sidewalk builder, house mover, re-roofing, sign hanger, master plumber, master and journeyman heating contractor, commercial hauler, pawn broker, second hand dealer, transportation vehicles, alcohol sellers, mobile home communities and forestry. Check the Auditor's Office list before assuming a license applies to you.
Official government sourceNo general business license fee. Listed categories have set annual fees — for example excavator $250/year (with a $100,000 bond), master plumber $125/year, master heating contractor $125/year, sign hanger $125/year, forestry $50/year.1–3 weeks, and only if your business type is on the city's licensed list
No general business license fee. Listed categories have set annual fees — for example excavator $250/year (with a $100,000 bond), master plumber $125/year, master heating contractor $125/year, sign hanger $125/year, forestry $50/year.
1–3 weeks, and only if your business type is on the city's licensed list
Terminus
Open for business — est. $300–$1,000 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses
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