All tattooists in the Borough must be registered with the Council. Premises are inspected by the Environmental Health Department to ensure standards of Hygiene and Public Health are maintained. Tattooists have a general duty to carry out their tattooing safely and hygienically. If premises are found to be unhygienic then action can be taken under the Health & Safety at Work Act.
The Local Government Act 2003 now requires the application of semi permanent colour to the skin to be regulated by the Local Authority. This Council is currently going through the process of adopting new byelaws that will cover hygiene requirements at all premsies carrying out tattooing and semi permanent skin colouring.
Tattooists are required to keep records of who they tattoo and must not tattoo anyone under the age of 18. The Police enforce this Law.
We would advise that you visit a tattoo parlour and discuss the procedure before committing to a tattoo. You should always check that they are registered with the Council before you agree to go ahead. Ask to see their certificate issued by the Council and check the names on the certificate are the same as those people proposing to carry out the tattoo.
Application for Registration as a tattooist
You may obtain an application form by following the link below or by using the email link at the bottom of this page to request one.
Enforcement Policy
Occasionally it is necessary for us to take enforcement action where informal approaches do not result in improved standards.
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