Find out what approvals you need to operate a hairdressing, beauty therapy or tattoo business, whether from a home or commercial premises.
Definitions
Skin penetration business: Any business offering treatments that pierce, cut or penetrate the skin, including:
Tattooing;
Permanent eyebrow or lip lining;
Acupuncture;
Ear or body piercing;
Waxing;
Electrolysis;
Manicures or pedicures (where skin/nail penetration may occur);
Cosmetic tattooing; and
Some beauty services involving puncturing or penetration.
Hairdressing business: A business providing hair cutting, colouring, styling or general hair care services. Hairdressing no longer requires formal health approval.
Overview of approval requirements
The approvals you require depend on the services you offer and whether you operate from home or a commercial premises.
Required only for skin penetration services (see Step 3).
Hairdressing services alone do not require health approval but must comply with the Public Health Act 2016 general duty to minimise public health risks.
Development (Planning) Approval may be required when you:
Operate a home-based business (category determines approval requirements – refer to Home Business page);
Open a new commercial premises;
Change the nature of an existing business (e.g., adding tattooing to a salon);
Change operating hours;
Increase staff or client numbers;
Increase your internal floor area;
Add new signage; and
Make changes to a heritage-listed building.
A Building Permit is required if you are:
Fitting out a new salon;
Making internal or external structural changes;
Installing new plumbing, sinks or specialist equipment; and
Constructing a new building.
If no building work is proposed, a Building Permit may not be required.
How to apply
Planning approval is required depending on the business type and location.
Home-based operators must determine their category using the Home Business page.
Documents to prepare and submit
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe and fees, refer to the Development (Planning) Approval page.
How to submit your application
To apply, choose your preferred method below and remember to submit your supporting documents along with the application form:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: Download and complete the Application Form PDF (see below), then submit it with all supporting documentation including the checklist at the City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo. Business hours are Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm.
- Option 3 – By post: Download and complete the Application Form PDF (see below), then mail it with all supporting documentation including the checklist to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
Fees
Planning assessment timeframes
- Up to 60 days for most applications
- Up to 90 days if consultation with the public or other public authority is required.
The assessment period commences once the City has received and accepted a complete application, including all required plans, supporting information and application fees.
Development (Planning) Approval, where required, must be issued before a Building Permit can be obtained.
Application for Development (Planning) Approval (PDF) Non-Residential Development Checklist (PDF)
If you are fitting out a new premises or making structural changes, you must obtain building approval.
Documents to prepare
For detailed information, including the application process, timeframe, and fees, refer to Building Permit page.
How to submit your application
You can submit your Building Permit application:
- Option 1 – Apply online (preferred): Apply through the online lodgement portal.
- Option 2 – In person: With all supporting documentation at the City of Wanneroo Civic Centre, 23 Dundebar Road, Wanneroo. Business hours are Monday-Friday, 8.30am-5pm.
- Option 3 – By mail: With all supporting documentation to City of Wanneroo, Locked Bag 1, Wanneroo WA 6946.
Note: A completed BA1 or BA2 form must be uploaded or attached with all submissions.
Fees
Timeframes
- Certified applications: within 10 business days
- Uncertified applications: within 25 business days
If further information is required, you will be contacted. The requested information must be provided within 21 days or within an agreed timeframe.
If your business involves any skin penetration procedure (tattooing, body piercing, cosmetic tattooing, waxing, electrolysis, acupuncture, manicures/pedicures that may break the skin), you must obtain approval from the City.
What you need to submit
You must complete the online form below and provide:
A floor plan showing the layout, sinks and treatment areas.
Details of services and equipment.
Payment of fees.
Once submitted, a Health Officer will inspect the premises. If compliant, you will receive written approval to operate.
