Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Columbus, OH

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio.

Updated 2026-02-15 5 stops $250–$1,000 est. 3–7 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

1 stop

  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)

State of Ohio

3 stops

  1. Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board — Barber Shop License

    All barber shops in Ohio must be licensed by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4709. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Ohio Barber License issued by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. This requires 1,800 hours of barber school education, plus a written and practical exam.

    Official government source

    $25 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Ohio Sales Tax Vendor License

    Required for selling retail products in your barber shop. The combined sales tax rate in Columbus/Franklin County is 7%.

    Official government source

    $251–2 weeks

City of Columbus / Franklin County

1 stop

  1. City of Columbus — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from the Columbus Division of Building and Zoning Services is required before opening a barber shop. This confirms the space is zoned and built for personal services use. Contact the Division at 614-645-7433.

    Official government source

    $100–$500 (varies by scope of work)2–5 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $250–$1,000 · 3–7 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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