Tattoo Parlor Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a tattoo parlor in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas.

$1175 -- $1800 6–12 weeks to obtain all permits and pass state and local inspections 7 requirements

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

Fort Worth / Tarrant County Requirements

3 requirements
1

City of Fort Worth — Health Permit for Body Art Establishment

All tattoo studios in Fort Worth must obtain a Health Permit from the City of Fort Worth Code Compliance Department, Environmental Quality Division. A pre-opening inspection is required to verify compliance with sanitation, sterilization, infection control, proper waste disposal, and recordkeeping requirements. Contact Fort Worth Code Compliance at 817-392-1234.

$250–$450 annually3–6 weeks (application, inspection, permit issuance)
Official government source
2

City of Fort Worth Fire Marshal Inspection

The Fort Worth Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau must inspect the studio space before the health permit is issued. Inspectors verify fire suppression systems, fire extinguisher placement, emergency exits, and compliance with the International Fire Code.

$75–$150 (inspection fee)1–3 weeks to schedule and complete
Official government source
3

Tarrant County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)

Required if operating the tattoo studio under any name other than your legal personal name. Filed with the Tarrant County Clerk. Valid up to 10 years.

$23 (plus $0.50 per additional owner)Same day
Official government source

Texas State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Texas DSHS Tattoo Studio License

All tattoo studios in Texas must be licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) under Health and Safety Code Chapter 146. Applications are submitted online through the DSHS Regulatory Services Online Licensing System. DSHS will inspect the studio to verify compliance with sanitation, sterilization, infection control, waste disposal, and recordkeeping requirements. The license is valid for two years and is tied to the studio address.

$927 (2-year license)4–8 weeks after application and DSHS inspection
Official government source
2

OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Training (per artist)

Each tattoo artist working in the studio must complete an OSHA-approved Bloodborne Pathogen training course. This is a requirement for the state DSHS studio license. Training certificates must be on file at the studio.

$20–$80 per person (online course)4–8 hours (online)
Official government source
3

Texas Sales Tax Permit

Tattoo services are taxable in Texas. Retail merchandise sales (aftercare products, apparel) are also taxable. Register free with the Texas Comptroller. The combined rate in Fort Worth is 8.25%.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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