What are the laws and regulations regarding tattooing and body piercing?
Answer
Statewide health regulations for tattooing and body piercing are currently being developed by the New York State Department of Health under the statutory authority of Public Health Law Article 4A. The law authorizes the Commissioner of Health to develop regulations establishing operating standards, fees, fines and penalties for failure to abide by the regulations. The law requires tattoo and body piercing operators to obtain a permit in order to operate a tattoo or body piercing studio and for all tattoo and piercing artists to obtain an individual permit.
Until the new regulations are in place, local regulations, if any, apply. For more information on regulations in your area, contact your county or city health department.