Tattoos and Body Piercing

Tattoo

The Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health conducts inspections in tattoo establishments in Cerro Gordo County. Inspections are conducted to protect the public from diseases that may be transmitted from one person to another through unsanitary or unsafe conditions. People who get tattoos and their future contacts are at risk for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, other bloodborne pathogens and infections if proper procedures are not in place.

During inspections, inspectors check sterilization equipment and records, facility and equipment sanitation and condition, artist procedures and sanitary measures that are used during the tattooing procedure, facility records and after care instruction and education.

The fee for a tattoo establishment inspection is $250.

More information about tattoo regulations, applications, and establishment or artist licenses can be found at the Iowa Department of Public Health web site.

Tattoo Artist Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have a high school diploma or G.E.D. (On-line high school diplomas are not acceptable).
• Must complete Bloodborne Pathogen and Standard First Aid Training.
• Must complete Tattoo Artist Application.
• Must submit fee of $75.00 along with application which can be found here.

Tattoo Establishment Requirements

• Must complete Permanent Establishment Application.
• Must submit $100.00 fee along with the application and floor plan.
• Must be located in a commercially-zoned building.
• Must pass inspection conducted by the Designated Inspection Agency.
• Must meet all requirements outlined in 641 Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 22.

Tattoo Resources

• Iowa Code Chapter 135
• Iowa Code Chapter 22
• Tattoo Inspection Form

Body Piercing

Body Piercing Resources

• Technician requirements
• Establishment requirements
• Body Piercing Technician License Application
• Body Piercing Establishment License Application
• Body Piercing Ordinance for Cerro Gordo County
• Costs, etc.