Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Portland, OR
Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Portland / Multnomah County Requirements
3 requirementsCity 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. Nail salons are classified as personal services businesses. Apply online through the Portland Business Licensing portal.
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 nail salon. If building out a new space or changing its use, a building permit is required. Contact BDS at 503-823-7300.
Multnomah County — Environmental Health — Cosmetology Establishment Permit
Nail salons in Portland require a Cosmetology Establishment Permit from Multnomah County Environmental Health. This includes a pre-opening inspection for sanitation, ventilation (critical for nail salons), and chemical handling compliance. Contact at 503-988-3400.
Oregon State Requirements
3 requirementsOregon Health Licensing Office — Cosmetology Salon License
All nail salons in Oregon must be licensed by the Oregon Health Licensing Office (OHLO) under the Oregon Board of Cosmetology. The salon establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with ORS Chapter 690 and OAR Chapter 817. The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, ventilation, and facility standards.
Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)
Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Oregon Nail Technician License issued by OHLO. This requires completing an approved 350-hour nail technology program, passing a written and practical exam.
Oregon Business Registry (if operating as LLC/Corporation)
If your nail salon is structured as an LLC, corporation, or other entity, you must register with the Oregon Secretary of State Business Registry. Sole proprietors using a DBA must also register the assumed business name with Multnomah County or the state.
Federal Requirements
2 requirementsEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance
Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).