You need to be registered under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 if you carry out any of the following treatments:
- acupuncture
- electrolysis
- ear piercing
- tattooing.
Registration is required for both the person carrying out the treatment and the premises used. You will need to re-apply if you move premises.
You must also comply with the relevant byelaws:
Read the byelaw for acupuncture
Read the byelaw for ear piercing and electrolysis
Fees and charges
There is a one-off registration fee to register as an operator and another fee to register the business premises.
Skin piercing (from 1 April 2024)
| Operator registration | £193 |
| Premises registration | £350 |
| Guest operator registration* | £50 |
| Replacement certificate | £25 |
*Available to those intending to operate in the Borough for 30 consecutive days or less and that already hold a valid registration or licence to tattoo with a Local Authority in the United Kingdom.
Register an operator and/or premises
Public register
See a list of premises registered for skin piercing activities
Body piercing
At present, body piercing is not affected by this legislation. However, it is still subject to the general requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and other related legislation.