Hair Salon Permit Requirements in Fargo, ND

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hair salon in Fargo, Cass County, North Dakota.

Updated 2026-03-15 5 stops $300–$1,000 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 North Dakota

2 stops

  1. North Dakota State Board of Cosmetology — Individual Cosmetologist License

    Each cosmetologist must hold a valid North Dakota Cosmetologist License. Requires 1,550 hours of cosmetology school and passing the state board exam.

    Official government source

    $40 (initial)4–8 weeks

  2. North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner — Sales Tax Permit

    Required for all businesses selling taxable goods or services in North Dakota. North Dakota charges a 5% state sales tax; local jurisdictions may add up to 3.5%. Register with the ND Office of State Tax Commissioner.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online via Taxpayer Access Point)

City of Fargo / Cass County

2 stops

  1. North 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 source

    $50 (initial)3–6 weeks

  2. City of Fargo Finance Department — Business License

    Fargo requires a Business License for regulated businesses operating within city limits. The Finance Department processes license applications. 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. $300–$1,000 · 4–10 weeks to obtain all permits and licenses

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Official Sources

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