Acupuncture; Piercing; Tattooing and Electrolysis
The Local Government (Miscellaneous
Provisions) Act 1982 and Local Government Act 2003 require the
following types of skin piercing need be registered with the
Council.
- Acupuncture
- Tattooing
- Cosmetic piercing
- Electrolysis.
The Act requires registration to cover both
the person carrying on the practice and the premises used for that
purpose. There are no powers to refuse registration, but the
practice is controlled through compliance with byelaws in each
case. The applicant must ensure that the procedures,
equipment and facilities used are safe, hygienic, prevent the
spread of disease and comply fully with the general duty of care
required by the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
It is illegal to conduct ear piercing, tattooing, acupuncture or
electrolysis unless the registration has been formally
approved.
It is illegal to tattoo a young person under
18 years of age even with parental consent. The only exception is
if the tattoo is performed for medical reasons by a medical
practitioner.
How to apply
Please see this section for details on
how to apply for a permit to conduct any
of these invasive procedures.
Local By-laws
Attached here are the local by-laws in relation
to acupuncture. They also provide general guidance for people
wishing to set up in the trade.
]