Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Portland, OR

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

2. OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

   Nail salons handle hazardous chemicals. OSHA requires Safety Data Sheets, employee training, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).

   Official government source

   Free (compliance requirement)·Implement before opening

   Free (compliance requirement)

   Implement before opening

1. Oregon 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.

   Official government source

   $75 application fee·3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

   $75 application fee

   3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

2. 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.

   Official government source

   $50 application fee per technician·3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

   $50 application fee per technician

   3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

3. 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.

   Official government source

   $100 (LLC registration)·1–2 weeks (online)

   $100 (LLC registration)

   1–2 weeks (online)

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. Nail salons are classified as personal services businesses. Apply online through the Portland Business Licensing portal.

   Official government source

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

   $100–$400/year (based on gross receipts; exemption for under $50,000)

   1–2 weeks

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 nail salon. If building out a new space or changing its use, a building permit is required. Contact BDS at 503-823-7300.

   Official government source

   $200–$800 (varies by scope of work)·2–6 weeks

   $200–$800 (varies by scope of work)

   2–6 weeks

3. 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.

   Official government source

   $150–$300/year·2–4 weeks

   $150–$300/year

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• Oregon Health Licensing Office — Cosmetology
• City of Portland — Revenue Division
• City of Portland Bureau of Development Services
• Multnomah County — Environmental Health
• Oregon Secretary of State — Business Registry

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