Body Art

We want to help you have a safe experience when getting a tattoo, piercing, or permanent makeup. While we cannot guarantee the quality of the artwork, we do help ensure that body art businesses are clean and follow health and safety laws.

Before getting any body art, take time to research the artist and the business. All body art establishments should make their most recent health inspection available for you to review.

For Customers

Health and safety standards are in place to protect both customers and artists. These include the following requirements:

• Sterilization practices are required to reduce the risk of blood borne diseases such as Hepatitis B.
• Piercings
  • Individuals under 18 years of age may not receive a body piercing unless the procedure is performed in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
  • Nipple and genital piercings are prohibited for minors, regardless of parental consent.
• Tattoos
  • Tattoos may not be applied to anyone under 18 years of age, regardless of parental consent.
• Clients may not receive a tattoo, piercing, or permanent cosmetic procedure while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

If you have safety concerns before, during, or after receiving a tattoo, piercing, or permanent cosmetic procedure, please contact Mono County Environmental Health at 760-924-1830.

If someone’s life is in danger, call 911.

For Businesses & Artists

All body art businesses must comply with the Mono County Body Art Guidelines .

Required Permits, Records, and Documentation

• Body Art Facility Permit Application
• Tattooing, Body Piercing, and Permanent Cosmetics Registration Application
• Maintain a valid Body Art Certificate of Registration
• Maintain client records, including:
  • The date of the procedure
  • A copy of valid photo identification showing the client’s name, age, and current address
  • The design and location of the tattoo, permanent cosmetic, or piercing
  • The name and registration number of the artist who performed the procedure
  • A copy of the signed client information and consent form
• Hepatitis B Vaccination Documentation, including one of the following:
  • Proof of completed Hepatitis B vaccination
  • Laboratory evidence of immunity
  • A signed Hepatitis B vaccination declination form kept on file and available during inspections. View a sample declination form .
• Develop and comply with an Exposure Control Plan as required by Section XII. A copy must be available onsite at all times. View a template here .

This list is not comprehensive. For a complete list of requirements, please review the Body Art Guidelines or contact Mono County Environmental Health at 760-924-1830.

For information and requirements related to operating a Mobile Body Art Facility (such as a vehicle or trailer), please review this document .