The Environmental Division licenses Body Art/Piercing establishments and conducts inspections to ensure that they are in compliance with the health and safety requirements of the state health department. The inspections focus on: Sterilization of equipment, Needle disposal procedures, Lighting, Record keeping, and Overall cleanliness of the facility.

 The use of improperly sanitized needles and instruments for Body Art or Piercing procedures by inadequately trained individuals can contribute to the spread of communicable diseases and/or cause permanent injury. Unlicensed individuals usually do not follow the standards required in a licensed facility and they frequently place their clients’ health at risk by re-using needles, not sterilizing equipment and not using universal precautions. Only receive body art from a licensed individual in a licensed establishment. Do not gamble with your health.