How to register as a tattoo artist in Greater Manchester

Do I legally need to register?

Yes. Under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, anyone carrying out tattooing must be registered with their local council, and so must the premises they work from. It is a criminal offence to tattoo without being registered. This applies right across Greater Manchester.

Registration is a one-off process (you don't renew it annually like a licence), but you must register again if you move to new premises or work in a different council's area.

What the council is checking

Registration is really about hygiene and infection control. The council wants to be satisfied that you understand cross-contamination, sterilisation, safe needle and sharps handling, and that your premises can be kept clean and safe. This is exactly what a proper course covers, and why an Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) Level 2 qualification (included on our courses) is so useful to show.

The steps

• Contact your local council (find yours below) and ask about registering for tattooing under the 1982 Act.
• Complete the application for both yourself (the person) and your premises, and pay the council's registration fee. Fees vary by council.
• Infection control review: an environmental health officer will go through hygiene and infection-control requirements with you.
• Premises inspection: the officer may visit to check the premises meet the standards (and any local byelaws).
• Get your certificate: once approved, the council issues your certificate of registration, which you display at the premises.

Good to have ready

• Proof of training and hygiene knowledge (for example your CPD certificate and IPC Level 2).
• Details of your premises and the equipment and sterilisation you'll use.
• The council's fee, and any photos or documents they ask for.

Always check your specific council's page, as the exact forms, fees and any local byelaws differ between areas.