Louisville Metro Public Health & Wellness regulates tattoo, piercing, and permanent-cosmetic studios under Chapter 96, requiring permits, sterilization standards, age limits, and routine inspections per Kentucky 902 KAR 45:065.
Tattoo and body-modification artists must obtain a Louisville Metro Public Health & Wellness permit and operate from a permitted facility. Standards mirror Kentucky administrative regulation 902 KAR 45:065: autoclave sterilization with biological indicators, single-use needles, hand-washing sinks, sharps disposal, and bloodborne-pathogen training. Customers must be 18 or older; minors aged 16-17 may receive piercings only with parent presence and consent. Studios undergo annual health inspections with surprise re-checks following complaints. Facility plan reviews are required before opening.
Operating without a permit, tattooing minors under 18, or failing sterilization audits leads to fines up to $1,000, immediate closure, and possible misdemeanor prosecution under KRS 211.760.
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