Body Art

Get licensing information for tattoo, piercing or permanent make-up services.

We inspect and license all La Crosse County tattoo and body piercing facilities

All La Crosse County tattoo and body piercing facilities (including permanent make-up facilities) must be licensed and inspected each year.  We do this to make sure health and safety standards are met to prevent infection and disease.

Thinking of opening a tattoo or body piercing establishment?

• All tattoo and body piercing activities must occur in a licensed establishment.
• All tattooists and body piercers must hold a practitioner’s license.
• Learn about codes, licenses, and general requirements of owning a tattoo or body piercing establishment.
• We’re happy to talk with you before you sign a lease or apply for a license to make sure your establishment meets all health requirements.

How to get your tattoo or body piercing establishment licensed

Step 1: Complete a Body Art Establishment Plan Review and submit that along with the appropriate fees to the La Crosse County Health Department.

Step 2: Work with your inspector during all phases of construction and remodeling.

Step 3: Complete a Permit License Application and submit that along with all appropriate fees to the La Crosse County Health Department.   

Step 4:  Once you have submitted your application and paid your fees, contact us to schedule a pre-licensing inspection.

Step 5:  Once the application is submitted, fees are paid, and pre-licensing inspection is completed, a permit will be issued.  Your license must be approved before you can operate.

If you have any questions, call us at 608-785-9771 or email us at [email protected].

Resources

Tattoo and Body Piercing Establishment Code

How to get your practitioner license

Tattooist and Body Piercer Application

Tattooist and Body Piercer Renewal Form