Rochester, NY Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

Chapter 90, Article II defines the businesses that need a City permit. Section 90-32's definition of SALON expressly covers 'a body piercing studio or a tattoo studio, other than a home occupation,' alongside hairdressers, barbers and beauticians. Section 90-33 makes the permit mandatory: no person may operate or maintain a business in the City without first obtaining a business permit from the Commissioner authorizing operation at that specific location, though businesses already licensed by the Chief of Police are exempt. The application under Section 90-34 must identify the owner and, if different, the day-to-day operator, and the Director reviews the location for Zoning Code compliance while the Chief of Police runs a background and calls-for-service check.

Section 90-35 lets the Commissioner and Fire Chief inspect the premises before a permit issues and, for renewals, only if a violation was proven in the prior licensing period. Section 90-38 sets the annual fee at $25, with a $10 replacement fee for a lost permit and a waived renewal fee if the business reapplies within 30 days of the City's renewal notice; all fees are nonrefundable and due when the application is filed. A permit expires one year after issuance under Section 90-39 and cannot be transferred under Section 90-40 if the ownership, business type, name or location changes.

Operating without the required permit triggers an immediate notice and order to vacate the space under Section 90-70D, on top of the ticketing scheme described below.