Running any type of business is a massive undertaking, but things can get especially complicated if you’re running a tattoo and body piercing shop. All industries have their own local, state and federal rules that entrepreneurs must adhere to. But for businesses operating in this specific space, staying informed becomes something of critical importance because violations like tattooing without a license are nearly always criminal offenses.
The most important thing to understand is that each state has its own laws regarding running a body piercing shop and/or tattoo parlor, and those laws can be wildly different depending on which area of the country you’re in. Therefore, if you really want to run the most successful business possible, there are a few key things you’ll need to keep in mind to avoid a tattoo lawsuit.
Avoid a Tattoo Lawsuit By Staying in the Know
In New Jersey, for example, there are two specific laws that you’ll have to adhere to. The first of those is N.J.A.C. 8:27-1 et seq., which outlines body art procedures. This New Jersey tattoo law establishes not only sterilization and sanitation standards, but safety standards as well. It is applicable to ALL people who run tattoo businesses, and those who deal in body piercing, ear piercing, and permanent cosmetics. It aims to protect the public’s health first and foremost.
The next is N.J. Stat. Ann. §2C:40-21, which outlines the tattooing and body piercing of minors. Essentially, you need written permission from a client’s parent or legal guardian for tattooing and body piercing if that person is under the age of 18 — and there are absolutely no exceptions.
On the flip side of this is a state like Nevada, that has absolutely no laws addressing body art but within Clark County, where Las Vegas is located, there is an ordinance on tattooing. Maryland is another state that has very limited laws. Some states have tattoo and piercing laws that totally prohibit minors from getting tattoos, and nearly all states have laws that make it illegal for you to give someone underage a tattoo or body piercing without at least first establishing parental permission.
If you’re thinking about opening your own tattoo and body piercing shop, it’s easy to see that tattoo laws by state are one of the most important considerations you can make. To that end, Marine Agency offers insurance to all 48 states in the continental US. We’re ready to become the partner you need when you need it the most.
Let our team of tattoo industry experts keep you up-to-date on all local, state and federal laws governing tattoos and body art, so that you can focus on the most important thing of all: running the business you’ve always wanted.
Key Takeaways:
- Each state has its own tattoo laws and they can vary wildly from one location to the next. Please consult a lawyer.
- New Jersey actually has two separate laws – one governing body art procedures, sterilization, sanitation and safety, and the other governing tattooing and body piercing for minors.
- State tattoo laws governing minors often require permission for anyone under the age of 18.
Body Piercing and Tattoo Shop Insurance
To learn more information about tattoo & body piercing insurance, or to get answers on which insurance policies might be best for your business, please don’t delay – contact Marine Agency today.
