Body Piercing
Regulations and Standards
While body piercing is a unique and personal expression afforded to each individual, there are several safety factors, both public and private, under which establishments must operate.
Health Issues
Body piercing presents the potential for infection of the pierced site (especially if aftercare procedures are not followed) and can potentially transmit blood-borne pathogens, such as Hepatitis B, if minimum sanitary and safety standards are not met.
Business Issues
Minimum sanitary and safety requirements must be met relating to the design, operation and maintenance of body-piercing salons and temporary establishments.
Operators and piercers must be trained in infections-control procedures prior to licensing of a salon. Body-piercing salons and temporary establishments are required to have an operating license that is subject to annual renewal.
Body piercing licenses are issued by the THD. To inquire about receiving a license or for requirement to obtain a body piereing license, please call (918) 595-4300.
If you have a complaint or concern regarding a body piercing salon, please call (918) 595-4300.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are body piercing salons required to have a license?
Yes, a license must be obtained annually from the health department and displayed in a public area of the salon. Ear piercing establishments who pierce only the lobe or outer rim of the ear are not required to be licensed.
Are body piercing salons inspected?
Yes, at least once per year by the Health Department.
Must a new needle be used on every customer?
Yes, only single-use sterilized needles may be used. All instruments and jewelry must also be sterile and piercers must wear disposable, sterile medical gloves when piercing.
Can minors be pierced?
Minors under the age of 18 may only be pierced with the presence or written consent of a parent or legal guardian.
What information must a piercer provide after piercing?
Verbal and written information regarding the aftercare of the piercing site. Additionally, the operator must ask the client to sign a Release Form confirming that medical information was obtained prior to the procedure.
Can I smoke, eat, or drink in a body piercing area?
No, these actions are prohibited in areas where body piercing procedures are performed. Body piercing may not be done in a bar or an establishment that serves food.