Ridgewood, NJ Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

Chapter 114, Body Art, adopted by Ord. No. C. 8:27 et seq. BODY ART is defined in § 114-2 to include body piercing, tattooing and permanent cosmetics. Section 114-4 requires a license, renewable annually on a calendar-year cycle (with pro-rated licenses for approvals issued after July 1), displayed conspicuously for clients to see; licenses are non-transferable, and an operator cannot run an establishment on a suspended license. Practitioners must carry professional malpractice liability insurance, and the operator must submit a current negative biological indicator test result with each initial application.

Section 114-5 lists the application package: applicant and business identification, floor plans showing reception, procedure, cleaning/sterilization, storage and toilet areas, a full processing-equipment inventory, a statement of zoning approval, hours of operation, staff and duties, manufacturer information for equipment, jewelry and inks, and the make, model and serial number of the steam autoclave with a photograph and the manufacturer's operating specifications. Only practitioners who complete the 40-hour training program approved by the Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals or the International Micropigmentation Association may work at a licensed establishment.

Section 114-6 gives the Department of Health 30 business days to approve or deny an application after submission, and § 114-7 guarantees a hearing before the Village Manager within 15 business days of a denial.