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Bridgeport, CT Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Establishment permit fee
$250 plus $50 filing fee
Tattoo artist permit fee
$100 plus $50 filing fee
Issued by
Chief of Police
Permits expire
June 30 annually
Inspections
At least twice a year

Summary

Bridgeport requires a police-issued permit before operating a tattoo establishment or working as a tattoo artist, with fingerprinting, background checks, and regular health inspections.

No person shall engage in, conduct or carry on or permit to be engaged in, conducted or carried on, in or upon any premises in the city, the operation of a tattoo establishment without first having obtained a permit from the chief of police.

Full Breakdown

Under Chapter 5.14, no one may run a tattoo establishment or ink skin for profit in Bridgeport without a permit from the chief of police. Establishment permits cost $250 ($50 non-refundable filing fee); tattoo artist permits cost $100 ($50 filing fee). Applicants submit fingerprints, photos, a criminal-history disclosure, and proof of accredited training. Permits expire every June 30. Police and the city health official inspect establishments at least twice a year.

Violations & Fines

No specific fine is written into Chapter 5.14, so unpermitted operation falls under the city's general penalty: up to $100 per day, each day a separate offense. Permits can also be suspended or revoked for chapter violations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who issues tattoo permits in Bridgeport?
The chief of police issues both tattoo establishment and tattoo artist permits after fingerprinting, a criminal-history check, and (for artists) proof of accredited training.
How often are Bridgeport tattoo shops inspected?
The police department and city health official inspect every tattoo establishment at least twice a year to confirm compliance with Chapter 5.14.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bridgeport

All Bridgeport rules

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