Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Nashville, TN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Nashville, Davidson County, Tennessee.

Updated 2026-02-15 7 stops $300–$1,200 est. 4–8 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

2 stops

  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)

  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

State of Tennessee

3 stops

  1. Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners — Cosmetology Salon License

    All nail salons in Tennessee must be licensed by the Tennessee Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners (within the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance). The salon establishment license requires an application, an on-site inspection, and compliance with Tennessee Code Annotated Title 62, Chapter 4. The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, ventilation, and facility standards.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee3–6 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 Tennessee Manicurist License issued by the Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. This requires completing an approved 300-hour manicurist program, passing a written and practical exam.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee per technician3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Tennessee Sales Tax Registration

    Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Tennessee Department of Revenue (TNTAP). The Tennessee state sales tax rate is 7%, with Davidson County adding 2.25% for a combined rate of 9.25% in Nashville.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

City of Nashville / Davidson County

2 stops

  1. Metropolitan Nashville — Business License (Metro Business Tax)

    All businesses operating in Nashville-Davidson County with gross receipts over $3,000 must obtain a standard Business License from the Metro Nashville Finance Department. Businesses with gross receipts under $3,000 may qualify for a minimal activity license. Apply online through the Tennessee Taxpayer Access Point (TNTAP).

    Official government source

    $15 (minimal) to $100/year (standard, based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. Metro Nashville — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from Metro Nashville Codes Administration is required before opening a nail salon. The CO confirms the space is zoned and built for personal services use. Contact Codes Administration at 615-862-6560.

    Official government source

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

Terminus

Open for business — est. $300–$1,200 · 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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