Sacramento, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

132, a short five-section chapter carried over from the prior code, governs tattooing citywide. 010 defines "tattooing" as the act or process of marking or coloring the skin by inserting pigment under or in the skin, or by producing scars. 020 requires every person engaged in tattooing, or conducting or maintaining a place where tattooing is practiced, to make a written application to the city health officer for a permit. The application must be signed and sworn by the applicant and state the applicant's true or fictitious name, true age, present street address, and any other address lived at or used for the business during the preceding six months, plus the name under which and place where the business will operate.

A photograph of the applicant, sized as the health officer prescribes, must be attached to the original application. The health officer issues the permit only after finding the application's statements true and the applicant of good moral character and proficient in tattooing. 030 gives the health officer or authorized agents the right to enter and inspect any place where tattooing is practiced to confirm compliance with the health department's rules, regulations, and sanitary requirements. 08. 040, or any other city or state law relating to the business.