Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Houston, TX
Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Houston, Harris County, Texas.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Houston / Harris County Requirements
2 requirementsCity of Houston Certificate of Occupancy
Nail salons must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the City of Houston Development Services Department confirming that the premises are approved for personal services use. Houston does not require a general business license, so the CO is the primary city-level permit. Contact Houston Permitting Center at 832-394-8800.
Harris County Assumed Name Certificate (DBA)
Required if operating under a trade name other than your legal name. Filed with the Harris County Clerk. Valid for up to 10 years.
Texas State Requirements
3 requirementsTexas Cosmetology Salon License (Nail Salon Establishment)
All nail salons in Texas must obtain a Cosmetology Salon License from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The application requires proof of a fixed business location, an inspection by TDLR, and compliance with Texas Administrative Code Chapter 83. The salon must meet ventilation, sanitation, and equipment standards before a license is issued.
Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)
Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Texas Nail Technician License issued by TDLR. This requires 600 hours of education from an accredited cosmetology school, passing a written and practical exam.
Texas Sales Tax Permit
Required for selling retail products in your salon. The combined tax rate in Houston is 8.25%. Apply through the Texas Comptroller's eSystems portal.
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 (acetone, acrylics, gel chemicals). OSHA requires maintaining Safety Data Sheets (SDS), employee training on chemical hazards, and adequate ventilation (29 CFR 1910.1200).