Cass County, ND Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Ordinance #2004-3, Section 38.12
- Permit issuer
- Fargo Cass Public Health Dept.
- Renewal
- Annually, expires Dec. 31
- Minors
- Written parental consent + presence required
- Max penalty
- $1,000 fine / 30 days jail
Summary
Cass County requires a health department permit to run a tattoo or piercing shop, renewed every December 31, with strict rules on minors and impaired clients.
It shall be unlawful to operate a body art establishment in Cass County, North Dakota, unless a permit is first obtained from the Fargo Cass Public Health Department. The provisions of this article do not apply to physicians or to individuals who pierce only the non-cartilaginous perimeter and lobe of the ear with a pre-sterilized single-use stud-and-clasp ear-piercing system; provided, however, that such individuals shall not be exempt from the applicable U.S. Food and Drug Administration requirements.
Full Breakdown
Ordinance #2004-3 makes it unlawful to operate a body art establishment -- tattooing, piercing, branding, scarification -- anywhere in Cass County without a permit from the Fargo Cass Public Health Department. Permits are non-transferable, expire every December 31, and require an inspection and approved floor plan before issuance. Operators must be at least 18, cannot work on clients under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and cannot tattoo or pierce a minor without a parent or guardian's written consent and physical presence. The health department can suspend or revoke a permit for cause after a hearing, and inspectors may enter permitted premises at any time.
Violations & Fines
Violating any provision is punishable by up to a $1,000 fine, up to 30 days in jail, or both, at the court's discretion; fines go to the Cass County Treasurer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to open a tattoo shop in Cass County?
Can a minor get a tattoo or piercing in Cass County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cass County
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