It’s safe to say that when you first dreamt of opening a nail salon, rules, regulations, and compliance probably weren’t the exciting part. Who thinks about paperwork when they're imagining stunning nail art and building lasting relationships with clients? But whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, understanding and following nail salon regulations has to be a top priority— for your business, your team, and your clients.
One of your main goals as a nail salon owner is to provide a exceptional experience to clients, of course, but a large piece of that takes operating a safe, clean, and legally compliant environment. Otherwise, you might face costly fines, legal issues, or even damage to your reputation, all of which can easily undermine the trust you’ve worked tremendously hard to build with your clients.
So, with that being said, here are the top seven things you should know about nail salon rules and regulations to help you (and your clients!) stay safe, compliant, and confident in your business. Let’s dive in!
1. Licensing Requirements
Before you can officially open your doors, you’ll need to ensure that both your business and your team are properly licensed, no exceptions. Every state requires nail salons to hold a valid business license, which legitimizes your operations and ensures you’re registered with the appropriate local authorities.1
On top of that, every technician providing services must have an individual state-issued cosmetology or nail technician license, proving they’ve completed the required training and passed competency exams. Hiring unlicensed workers can lead to major penalties, even if it’s unintentional.
In most cases, you’ll also need to pass inspections and obtain approvals from local health and building departments before welcoming clients in the door. These inspections focus on everything from the layout of your salon to your sanitation protocols and ventilation systems. Some areas even have specific zoning requirements for beauty businesses.
Skipping these steps or operating without the proper paperwork is risky and can result in immediate shutdowns and hefty fines. Essentially, the more thorough your licensing is, the more confidently you can grow your brand.
Pro Tip
Always verify licensing requirements for your specific state and city, as local regulations can be stricter than state laws.
2. Health and Safety Standards
Cleanliness isn’t just good business — it’s the law. Nail salons are required to follow strict health and safety protocols to protect both clients and staff from infections, allergic reactions, and even more serious health risks. Every tool that touches a client must either be thoroughly sterilized after each use or replaced with a brand-new, disposable item. Handwashing between clients is imperative, and helps prevent the spread of germs.2
Workstations must be wiped down and sanitized regularly, not just at the start or end of the day. Additionally, because many nail products contain strong chemicals, proper ventilation is essential to maintain air quality and prevent respiratory issues. All products — from acetone to lotions — should be stored in clean, clearly labeled containers to avoid contamination or misuse. Health departments often check for these practices during inspections, and violations can lead to fines, penalties, or even forced closures.
3. Employee Regulations
Running a nail salon means being just as responsible for your team as you are for your clients. Every employee must be properly classified, either as an employee or an independent contractor, based on how much control you have over their work.
Misclassification can trigger audits, back taxes, and legal headaches you definitely want to avoid. Employees must be paid at least minimum wage, compensated for overtime when applicable, and given a safe, healthy working environment in compliance with OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards.
In many states, you’ll also need to carry workers' compensation insurance, even if you have just one employee. Protecting your team is an absolute legal obligation. And remember: happy, protected employees create a better, more professional experience for your clients.
4. Client Safety and Rights
When clients book a nail (or really any beauty) service with you, they’re trusting you with their health. It’s your responsibility to create a safe, welcoming environment where they feel comfortable and informed. Clients have the right to clean tools, a sanitized workspace, and full transparency about any risks involved with a service, especially for treatments that could impact the skin or nails.
Even if it’s not legally required in your area (check online!), making clients aware of their rights and what they can expect from you and your team builds trust and boosts your professional reputation.
Not to mention, encouraging open communication and empowering clients to speak up if something feels wrong protects both sides, and can be your best defense against potential complaints.
Did you know?
The best place to check for any applicable nail salon rules and regulations would be for .gov website for your specific state! For example, you can find the rules and regulations for California nail salons at the official Board of Barbering and Cosmetology website.
5. Proper Record Keeping
Behind every polished salon is a mountain of paperwork, but for good reason! Keeping accurate records is a huge legal safeguard. Depending on your state’s regulations, you may be required to maintain client service records, document sanitation procedures, keep copies of employee licenses, and track chemical inventories.
Detailed documentation can help you prove compliance during a surprise inspection or defend yourself if a client files a claim. It's also a smart way to monitor trends in your services and products, giving you valuable insights into what’s working (and what’s not) in your business. A little extra effort in keeping clear, up-to-date records now can save you from tons of stress later on.
6. Advertising and Service Regulations
It’s tempting to market your services with bold claims. When it comes to advertising, though, honesty isn’t just the best policy—it’s the legal one. You must accurately describe your services and the qualifications of your staff. Exaggerated claims like “guaranteed fungus-free” or “permanent results” can land you in hot water with regulators or even expose you to lawsuits.
If you offer specialized services like medical-grade pedicures or microblading, consent forms and full client disclosures are often required. Transparency not only keeps you compliant with regulations but also helps manage client expectations and builds lasting trust.
Clear, truthful marketing lays the groundwork for long-term success and protects you from unwanted legal trouble.
7. Regular Inspections
Health and cosmetology boards don’t usually call ahead, which means inspections often happen without warning. Being prepared is key. Make sure your business licenses, technician licenses, and any required permits are up-to-date, prominently displayed, and easily accessible. Sanitation logs should be current and accurate, and every employee should know your hygiene and safety protocols by heart.
Important!
For any California-based readers, this Safety and Health Fact Sheet from the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology includes a complete breakdown of required sanitation practices, worker protections, and client safety standards you need to follow.
Passing inspections consistently builds a strong reputation with both regulators and clients. If you’re cited for any violations, address them quickly and thoroughly, dragging your feet can lead to bigger fines or even suspension of your license. Think of inspections not as a hassle or a looming shadow, but as an opportunity to prove to your clients and community that you prioritize their health and safety.
A Commitment to Excellence AND Success
Staying compliant is an ongoing commitment. So, stay informed, train your team, and when in doubt, consult your local cosmetology board or a legal expert specializing in salon businesses. You’ve got this!
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