You’ve navigated the IRS and survived the State Board of Barbering. You have your Establishment License in hand, and you feel like you’ve finally crossed the finish line. This is a dangerous moment.
Many first-time founders make the critical mistake of believing that a state-issued license is the only permission they need to open. They are wrong. Your state license gives you permission to operate an industry, but it does not give you permission to operate a business at your specific location. That power belongs to your city and county governments.
Ignoring these local business permits is the number one reason new businesses get hit with fines or “Stop Work” orders that can delay an opening for months. Here are the three main local hurdles you must clear before you can legally open your doors.
1. The “Permission to Exist” Permit: The Certificate of Occupancy
This is the most important local permit, and the one most often overlooked. A Certificate of Occupancy for business (often called a “C of O”) is a document issued by your city’s building or zoning department. It certifies that your space is safe to be occupied by the public and is being used for its intended purpose (in your case, as a barbershop).
- Why You Need It: A C of O ensures the building is up to code. A building inspector will visit your location to verify that your construction, plumbing, and electrical work have been done safely and legally. You cannot legally have the public in your space without a valid C of O.
- How to Get It: The process starts at your local city hall, usually with the Department of Buildings. You will need to submit your detailed floor plans and build-out plans for approval before any construction begins. After the work is done, you will schedule a final inspection.
2. The “Permission to Operate” License: The City/County Business License
On top of your state license, you will almost certainly need a general city business license or county operating permit. This is essentially a local tax. It’s how the city registers your business and grants you permission to operate within its jurisdiction.
- Why You Need It: It’s the law. Operating without a local business license can result in fines and penalties.
- How to Get It: This is typically a straightforward process. You can usually apply online or in person at your city hall or county administrative office. You’ll need your LLC information and your EIN.
3. The “Permission to Be Sanitary” Permit: The Local Health Permit
While the state board sets the sanitation standards for the practice of barbering, some local health departments have their own requirements for the facility itself.
- Why You Need It: A county health permit for barbershops may be required to ensure your shop meets local standards for sanitation, water supply, and waste disposal. This is especially common if you are in a building on a septic system or if your local health code has specific rules beyond the state’s.
- How to Get It: Check with your county’s Department of Health. They will be able to tell you if any specific local health permits are required for a personal care service business like a barbershop.
Do not assume your landlord or contractor will handle these for you. It is your responsibility as the business owner to research, apply for, and secure every one of these local permits. The best place to start is your city’s official government website, which usually has a “New Business” or “Permitting” section with a checklist of everything you’ll need.