Nail Salon Permit Requirements in Virginia Beach, VA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a nail salon in Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach City County, Virginia.

$350 -- $1300 4–8 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits 7 requirements

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

Virginia Beach / Virginia Beach City County Requirements

2 requirements
1

City of Virginia Beach — Business License

All businesses operating in Virginia Beach must obtain a Business License (BPOL — Business, Professional and Occupational License) from the Virginia Beach Commissioner of the Revenue. Nail salons are classified as personal services businesses. The license is based on gross receipts and is renewed annually.

$50–$500/year (based on gross receipts; rate is $0.19 per $100 of gross receipts for personal services)1–2 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Virginia Beach — Certificate of Occupancy

A Certificate of Occupancy from the Virginia Beach Department of Planning and Community Development is required before opening a nail salon. The CO confirms the space is zoned for personal services use and meets building and fire codes. Contact at 757-385-4211.

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

Virginia State Requirements

3 requirements
1

Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology — Cosmetology Salon License

All nail salons in Virginia must be licensed by the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology (within the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation — DPOR). The salon establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with Virginia Code Title 54.1 and 18 VAC 41. The salon must meet sanitation, equipment, ventilation, and facility standards.

$70 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)
Official government source
2

Individual Nail Technician License (per employee)

Every nail technician working in the salon must hold a valid Virginia Nail Technician License issued by DPOR. This requires completing an approved 150-hour nail technician program, passing a written and practical exam administered by PSI Exams.

$50 application fee per technician3–6 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)
Official government source
3

Virginia Sales Tax Registration

Required for selling retail products in your salon. Register with the Virginia Department of Taxation. The Virginia state sales tax rate is 5.3%, with Virginia Beach adding 1% for a combined rate of 6% in Virginia Beach. (No additional local tax is added in most cases.)

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Federal Requirements

2 requirements
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source
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).

Free (compliance requirement)Implement before opening
Official government source

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