Learn more about the planning, building and health requirements for skin penetration, tattoo and beauty businesses.
Definition of skin penetration
Skin penetration refers to any procedure that involves cutting, puncturing, tearing, or shaving the skin or mucous membranes. This includes a range of practices such as:
- tattoos
- piercing
- branding
- dermal anchors
- 3-D art or body modifications
- beauty therapy procedures (including waxing, shaving, tweezing, and electrolysis)
- acupuncture.
These procedures are grouped under skin penetration due to their potential to breach the skin's barrier, emphasizing the need for proper sanitary practices.
Overview of requirements
Outlined below are the approvals required for operating a hairdressing establishment:
- Planning approval: Development (planning) approval may be required depending on the business location and the permitted land use. Please refer to the Requirements for planning applications page for detailed instructions, including application form, checklist, and fees.
- Building approval: A building permit is required for constructing a new building or making additions to an existing building. Fitouts to an existing building may require a building permit, please refer to the Department of Energy Mines industry Regulation and Safety Bulletin. An occupancy permit may also be required.
- Environmental Health approval: All skin penetration businesses must apply for approval to establish a skin penetration premises.
Important note: Before proceeding with your applications, we strongly recommend contacting the City via email to discuss your specific project. This initial consultation allows us to provide tailored guidance on the approvals required and the recommended order for application submissions. This step is crucial to ensure that you follow the correct process for your business needs.
Registration of a skin penetration business
If planning approval is required, you can learn how to apply, understand the assessment process, and discover the applicable fees on the Requirements for planning applications page.
If you have confirmed that a permit is required, the application form, checklist, assessment process, and fees can be found on the Requirements for building applications page.
As the owner of a skin penetration establishment, it is mandatory to notify the City before constructing, fitting out, or beginning operations of your premises. Ensure that all practices and facilities comply with the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures.
Before submitting your application, it is recommended to familiarise yourself with the following:
Ensure your application is accompanied by detailed plans and specifications showing compliance with all relevant regulations.
Essential supporting documents include:
- an overall site plan
- detailed floor plans
- internal elevation drawings
- a schedule of materials and finishes
- a list of all the procedures to be undertaken on the premises.
Select your preferred lodgement method below and remember to include supporting documents.
- Online (preferred): submit your application along with the relevant required documentation to (PDF forms are not required for this option):
Apply to establish a skin penetration premises
Alternate methods:
- In person: Download and complete the application form below and submit at the City of Joondalup Customer Care Centre, 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup.
- Mail: Download and complete the application form below and mail to PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
Application to Establish a Skin Penetration Premises Form (PDF)
An application fee of $161 including GST is required at the time of application. Payment details for each type of lodgement are provided below:
- Online: You will receive an invoice with payment instructions via email.
- In person: Make payments at the City’s Administration Centre using cash, cheque, EFTPOS, or credit card. Please note, a 0.5% surcharge applies to Visa or Mastercard transactions.
- Mail: Include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application to PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919
More information and contact
For further details on approval of businesses that involve skin penetration, contact the City on 9400 4000 or info@joondalup.wa.gov.au.