You don't need a licence to provide tattooing services in South Australia, but the industry is regulated by consumer and Business Services (CBS). Rules apply to anyone who:
- tattoos another person (even if there is no fee)
- carries on a business providing tattoo services
- is an employee at a tattoo business
- is a director of a body corporate that provides tattoo services
- sells or supplies tattooing equipment.
Things you must tell CBS
Business and employee details
Business details
Businesses that provide tattoo services must keep records and tell CBS:
- that you are running a business that provides tattoo services
- the name and address of company directors
- details of all employees.
- details of your lease agreement or title of deed
- details of the place you predominantly provide tattooing services - eg tattoo parlour, tattoo show location.
Employees
Every employee who is a tattooist or who sells tattooing equipment also notify CBS.
Subcontractors and visitors to SA
If you have a sub-contracting arrangement with another tattoo business, or are visiting from interstate or overseas to provide tattoo services, you still need to notify CBS.
Exempt activities
You don't need to notify CBS if you provide tattooing which resembles make-up or is performed in the course of medical treatment.
Fees
There are no fees.
Changes in circumstances
As a tattoo service provider you are required to notify CBS within 14 days if your circumstances change - eg:
- personal details
- directorship changes
- attending events
- business address details
- trading name
- any change in circumstance that may result in disqualification.
Participation in tattoo shows
Tattoo service providers must notify CBS if they plan to participate at a tattoo show, convention or fair in South Australia.
Offences and penalties
Providing false or misleading information
Failure to provide the required information or providing false or misleading information is an offence. Individuals can be fined $100,000 or face one year imprisonment and body corporates can be fined $250,000.
Operating when disqualified
Certain people can be disqualified from providing tattoo services, including members of organised crime gangs and their associates.
It is an offence to provide tattooing services if you are disqualified. The maximum penalty is $250,000 for a company or four years imprisonment for an individual.
Disqualification guidelines for the tattoo industry (PDF 172KB).
CBS does not provide a public list of disqualified persons. If you need to check a person's status - eg an employee - ask them for their confirmation email from CBS.
If they can't give you their confirmation email, you can request the information from CBS.
Prohibited items
In premises where tattoo services are provided, it's an offence to have:
- drugs
- firearms
- explosives
- weapons
- any other dangerous items.
SA Police can search a premises if they believe they will find any of these prohibited items.
Related information
Other websites
- New Tattooing, piercing and body modification laws - Attorney General's Department
- Skin penetration guidelines - SA Health
