Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Seattle, WA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a barber shop in Seattle, King County, Washington.

Updated 2026-02-15 7 stops $450–$1,600 est. 4–9 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

1 stop

  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)

State of Washington

3 stops

  1. Washington State Department of Licensing — Barber Shop License

    All barber shops in Washington State must be licensed by the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), Cosmetology Unit (which covers barbering). The shop establishment license requires an application, on-site inspection, and compliance with RCW Chapter 18.16 and WAC Chapter 308-20.

    Official government source

    $50 application fee3–6 weeks (includes application review and on-site inspection)

  2. Individual Barber License (per barber)

    Every barber working in the shop must hold a valid Washington State Barber License issued by DOL. This requires completing an approved 1,000-hour barber program, passing a written and practical exam.

    Official government source

    $60 application fee per barber4–8 weeks (after completing required education and passing exams)

  3. Washington State Business License

    Most businesses operating in Washington must obtain a State Business License through the Washington Department of Revenue. Apply through the My DOR portal.

    Official government source

    $19 (one-time)Immediate (online application)

City of Seattle / King County

3 stops

  1. City of Seattle — Business License Tax Certificate

    All businesses operating in Seattle must obtain a Business License Tax Certificate from Seattle License and Tax Administration. Annual renewal required.

    Official government source

    $110/year (base fee; additional charges based on gross receipts)1–2 weeks (online application)

  2. City of Seattle — Certificate of Occupancy

    A Certificate of Occupancy from the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) is required before opening. Contact SDCI at 206-684-8600.

    Official government source

    $200–$800 (varies by scope of work)2–6 weeks

  3. Public Health — Seattle & King County — Cosmetology Establishment Permit

    Barber shops in King County must obtain a Cosmetology Establishment Permit from Public Health — Seattle & King County. This includes a pre-opening sanitation and equipment inspection. Contact at 206-263-9566.

    $200–$400/year2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $450–$1,600 · 4–9 weeks to obtain all licenses and permits

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Official Sources

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