Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Portland, OR

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon.

$450 -- $1500 4–9 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 7 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Portland / Multnomah County Requirements

3 requirements
1

City of Portland — Business License Tax Registration

All businesses operating in Portland with gross receipts over $50,000 must register for the Portland Business License Tax with the Portland Revenue Division. Apply online through the Portland Business Licensing portal.

$100–$400/year (based on gross receipts; exemption for under $50,000)1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Portland — Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy from the Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) is required before opening a barber shop. Contact BDS at 503-823-7300.

$200–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks
Official government source
3

Multnomah County — Environmental Health — Cosmetology Establishment Permit

Barber shops in Portland require a Cosmetology Establishment Permit from Multnomah County Environmental Health. This includes a pre-opening inspection for sanitation and equipment compliance. Contact at 503-988-3400.

$150–$300/year2–4 weeks
Official government source

Oregon State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Oregon Health Licensing Office — Barber Shop License

All barber shops in Oregon must be licensed by the Oregon Health Licensing Office (OHLO) under the Oregon Board of Cosmetology (which regulates barbering). The barber shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with ORS Chapter 690 and OAR Chapter 817. The shop must meet sanitation, equipment, and facility standards.

$75 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)
Official government source
2

Individual Barber License (per barber)

Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Oregon Barber License issued by OHLO. This requires completing an approved 1,250-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam.

$50 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Oregon Business Registry (if operating as LLC/Corporation)

If your barber shop is structured as an LLC or corporation, register with the Oregon Secretary of State Business Registry.

$100 (LLC registration)1–2 weeks (online)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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