Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Portland, OR
Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor 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
4 requirementsMultnomah County Environmental Health Body Art Establishment Permit
Multnomah County Environmental Health issues permits for body art establishments, including tattoo parlors. The establishment must meet strict sanitation requirements: proper hand-washing sinks, autoclave sterilization equipment, adequate ventilation, and single-use needle policies. Annual renewal and inspections are required.
City of Portland Business License
Issued by the City of Portland Revenue Division, this license is required for all businesses operating within Portland city limits. The base fee starts around $100/year plus a percentage of gross revenue above a threshold.
Certificate of Occupancy
The Portland Bureau of Development Services (BDS) requires a Certificate of Occupancy when opening a new tattoo parlor or modifying an existing commercial space. This involves zoning review, fire safety inspection, and building code compliance. Tattoo parlors must install approved hand-washing sinks per Oregon Health Authority requirements.
Portland Fire & Rescue Inspection
Portland Fire & Rescue conducts occupancy inspections for commercial businesses, including tattoo parlors, to verify compliance with fire code requirements such as sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and exit signage.
Oregon State Requirements
3 requirementsOregon Health Licensing Office (OHLA) Body Art Facility License
The Oregon Health Licensing Office (OHLA), under the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS), requires separate licensing for body art facilities. The facility license is in addition to individual artist licenses and covers the physical establishment.
Oregon Health Licensing Office (OHLA) Individual Tattoo Artist License
Oregon requires each individual tattoo artist to hold a license issued by OHLA. Licensing requirements include bloodborne pathogen training, completion of a tattoo apprenticeship, and passing a written exam. Oregon is stricter than many states in requiring both facility and individual artist licensing.
Oregon Secretary of State Business Registration
All formal business entities operating in Oregon must register with the Oregon Secretary of State. An LLC is recommended for tattoo parlors due to liability exposure from the nature of the work.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.