Harrisburg, PA Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

Chapter 6-329 of the Harrisburg Codified Ordinances, the "Tattoo and Body Piercing Establishment Code," covers every building, room, temporary booth and mobile unit in the City of Harrisburg where tattooing or body piercing is done. The Health Officer issues the license and can refuse, suspend or revoke it summarily, subject to review by the Harrisburg Board of Health.

The application asks for ten categories of information. They include the method of sterilization, the names and birth dates of all employees, any relevant criminal history, a physician's certificate that the applicant and each employee is free from infectious disease with proof of Hepatitis B vaccination, a valid City mercantile license showing compliance with the City Zoning Code, proof of a prior license, a two-year apprenticeship or prior full-time work, and annual pathogen control certification for every named employee.

The fees are printed in § 6-329.3 and § 6-329.4. Applying costs $100 per establishment plus $75 per tattoo artist or body piercer, an apprentice license costs $50 per apprentice each year, and a temporary special event license of up to three days costs $25 per day per artist or piercer. Renewal costs $100 per establishment plus $50 per artist or piercer and $75 per apprentice, and is presented within 30 days before December 31, with a $25 late fee after the due date. The application fee covers a full year and is not prorated. Licenses are not transferable, so a change of ownership needs a new license and a new application fee.

The Health Officer inspects every establishment at least twice a year, with a minimum of three months between inspections. A failed inspection brings an immediate cease and desist order and a $100 reinspection fee. Operators post the license, the latest inspection results, aftercare pamphlets and an emergency plan. Under § 6-329.18, a client under 18 needs written permission from a parent or guardian who is present, and consent forms are kept for four years. Licensed physicians and earlobe-only piercers who meet the sterile-equipment conditions are exempt under § 6-329.20.