If you plan to open and operate a hairdressing, skin penetration or beauty therapy business in our city, please refer to the below page outlining what requirements you may need.
About Operating a Hairdressing Business
Hairdresser is any person who shaves, cuts, trims, dresses, removes or alters facial or scalp hair in any way. Hairdressing premises are required to comply with the Hairdressing Establishment Regulations 1972. If you plan on using a cutthroat or straight razor, please refer to the guidelines outlined by WA Health.
Application Requirements for Hairdressing Premises
Before you begin trading as a hairdressing business you first need to notify your business to be assessed by us. You will need to provide a detailed layout showing the locations of:
- The hairdressing area
- Workstations
- Hair wash basin supplied with hot and cold water
- Handwash basin supplied with hot and cold water
- Sink designated for cleaning and decontaminating equipment only
- Preparation area for refreshments
- Staff facilities
- General waste, hair waste and medical waste bins
- Tools and equipment storage area
- Natural or mechanical ventilation (e.g. windows, evaporative air-conditioner)
Please indicate the type of floor covering walls, ceilings, shelves and fittings used, as well as any other furniture present.
These regulations are taken from the Hairdressing Establishment Regulations 1972.
Notify as a Hairdressing Premise
Application to notify as as a Hairdressing Premise
You can submit your application to us via email, post, or in-person
About Operating a Skin Penetration or Beauty Business
A skin penetration and beauty therapy procedures include many treatments including waxing, tattoos, cosmetic tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture. To administer any of these treatments you need to comply with the Health (Skin Penetration Procedure) Regulations 1998 and be aware of the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration procedures and Fit Out Guidelines for a Skin Penetration establishment.
Application Requirements for Skin Penetration or Beauty Therapy Premises
Before you start trading as a skin penetration or beauty therapy business you need to notify your business and subject to an assessment by us. You will need to provide a copy of the internal fittings and layout or the proposed space detailing the locations of the following:
- Procedure areas
- Hands free hand wash basin supplied with hot and cold water, soap and paper towels in the immediate treatment area
- Sink designated for cleaning and decontaminating equipment only
- Work pace and preparation area (separate from the treatment areas)
- Workstations
- Tools and equipment storage area
- Preparation area for refreshments
- General waste and medical waste bins
- Natural or mechanical ventilation (e.g. windows, evaporative air-conditioner)
Please indicate the type of floor covering, walls, ceilings, shelves, and fittings used as well as any other furniture present.
You will also need to provide information about sterilisation equipment including:
- Equipment brand name and model number
- Type (autoclave / dry heat)
- Specifications (temperature, pressure and time)
- Details or calibration including certificate of calibration
- Details and maintenance including details and log sheets
- Disinfection and sterilisation plan
These regulations are taken from the Health (Skin Penetration Procedure) Regulations 1998.
Notify as a Skin Penetration or Beauty Therapy Premise
Application to notify as a skin penetration, beauty therapy premise
You can submit your application to us via email, post, or in-person.
Note: If you are a practitioner and/or nurse registered with AHPRA you are exempted from the Health (Skin Penetration) Regulations 1998, however it is recommended that you refer to the guidelines as best practice.
Planning and Development Approvals
You will need to ensure the suitability of your proposed business in your chosen location or building. Our Planning Officers will ensure it complies with zoning, parking, signs, and other relevant planning schemes.
Change of Use Permit
If you are planning to change the use of any building from one use to another e.g. a shop to a hairdressing salon you may need approval from us. Please see our land use and change of use page for further information.
Note: In general as a guide, a “change of use” approval from Planning Services will require a Building Approval application. To determine if a Building approval is required, you can engage the Services of the Private Building Certifier.
Occupancy Permit
You will need to obtain an occupancy permit if you:
- Are making structural changes to the existing building;
- Are making changes to the fire safety of the building;
- If you are constructing a new building
An occupancy permit is usually registered by the building surveyor and ensures that your building complies with relevant planning and building regulations. See further information and how to apply on the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.
Signage and Advertising
Putting up signage and advertising can be an excellent way to market your business. We recommend you read through and follow our Local Planning Policy Outdoor Advertisements and Signage to ensure you comply with our guidelines and local laws.
Verge Bonds
If you are planning extensive construction, valued at over $20,000, we will require a verge bond to ensure that any damage caused to our infrastructure during construction or demolition works is rectified. Please see more information about Verge Bonds and Refunds.
Building Approvals
If you plan on making any structural alterations or additions to an existing building or verge, or if you’re constructing a new premise, you will need building approval for the proposed construction. Please contact us to discuss your building plans.
Planning and Building Advice, and Environmental Health Advice
For advice regarding submitting planning and building applications or for any questions you may have about this process please refer to our Planning and Building Advice Page to see your options. For any questions regarding Environmental Health Approvals or advice please contact us.
Fees and Charges
There will be fees and charges required depending on what type of permits you may need for your proposed business. See our full fees and charges for specific amounts.
Timelines for Applications
We aim to complete the registration of your business within 14 days. All other permits and approvals will be dependent on extent of works being done or changes to an existing building. We recommend you contact us before starting your application process to discuss timelines.