Many tattoo artists dream of being able to open their own tattoo studio.
Of course, like any other business open to the public, this also requires essential permits, mandatory timelines, and actions to take to correctly complete the entire procedural process for opening.
Furthermore, it is important to know all the regulations governing the profession from a legislative standpoint, to avoid incurring possible penalties, whether minor or severe.
First of all, it is necessary to have attended the 1500-hour professional course, to have passed the final exam, and to have obtained the Regional Certification as a Tattoo Operator recognized throughout the national and European territory.
This is the fundamental requirement to demonstrate that you are, in all respects, a professional tattoo artist and capable of independently managing and performing the tattoo operator profession within your own Studio.
Rules to follow when deciding to open a tattoo studio
The first thing to do is to choose the right location to open your tattoo studio.
This choice is very important: visibility, an easily accessible and high-traffic location, presence of parking, local competitors, etc., are factors to consider, especially for the initial period, as they allow you to become known more quickly.
Internally, the tattoo studio must comply with a series of key rules:
- There must be a waiting room and a reception area, completely separate from the work environment
- There must be a restroom accessible to clients without passing through the operating room
- There must be a sink with elbow or foot controls
- There must be an area dedicated to special waste disposal and sterilization, if present, separate from the “clean” area
- The area where tattoos are performed must have a minimum size (9 square meters), and floors and walls must be suitable for disinfectant and water-repellent treatments
- There must be an area for used products and another for products and tools not yet used
- The area where tattoos are performed must be equipped with at least 1 bed, 1 armchair, and suitable equipment
- The finishes of the premises must allow for maximum cleanliness and proper disinfection
Permits required to open a tattoo studio
To carry out these works in the Studio, it is mandatory to submit the Sworn Notification of Commencement of Works (C.I.L.A.).
Once the Studio is “set up,” to operate legally in the tattoo services sector, the first step is to open a VAT number and register mandatorily with the Chamber of Commerce, INPS, and INAIL.
It is then necessary to ensure you have all the necessary documents related to opening the commercial activity, essential to demonstrate your compliance with tax laws and to protect yourself in case of accidents or damages.
Next, you proceed with requesting the authorizations and permits required by law to open a tattoo studio.
The main one is the hygiene-sanitary suitability certificate for the premises: the tattoo studio must comply with ASL regulations with a specific health authorization that must be displayed for clients to see.
The competent authorities will then have to carry out all checks to ensure that hygiene standards are met and that the safety of clients is guaranteed within the Studio, preventing the risk of infections or transmissible diseases.
Once this is obtained, you proceed with the Certified Notification of Commencement of Activity (S.C.I.A.) through the Single Desk for Productive Activities (S.U.A.P.).
Before opening the Studio, you must acquire all the equipment and supplies necessary to perform tattoos safely and professionally, as well as the appropriate clothing:
- Disposable sleeves
- Disposable needles and cartridges
- High-quality inks
- Gloves, aprons, and disposable materials to ensure hygiene
- Protective mask
Useful tips for opening a tattoo studio
In conclusion, the advice is to always turn to certified suppliers, to ensure you operate with professional and high-quality tools.
Furthermore, it is advisable to take out tattoo artist insurance before actually starting the activity. It is not mandatory, but it helps protect against possible claims or compensation requests.
The process of obtaining permits to open a tattoo studio can take time, so it is important to plan ahead.
Courses to become a professional tattoo artist and open your own tattoo studio at Milano Tattoo School
To be able to practice the profession of tattoo artist and open your own tattoo studio in the Lombardy Region, as per new provisions regulated by Regional Law no. 13 of July 23, 2021, it is necessary to attend a 1500-hour training course.
Only at the end of the course, upon passing the final exam, will you receive the Professional Certification as a Tattoo Operator valid throughout Italy and at a European level.
Milano Tattoo School is an institution accredited by the Lombardy Region and represents the benchmark in Italy for training the professional figure of a tattoo artist.
Our Tattoo Operator Course of 1500 hours provides high-level instruction with classroom lessons and laboratory sessions, supported by a Staff of professionals and experts in the world of Tattooing and all necessary subjects.
It guarantees complete technical and artistic preparation and allows enrolled students to practice on synthetic skin in the creation of approximately 30 tattoos of different styles.
Furthermore, thanks to a solid collaboration with +150 Studios in the Region, students can count on internships and concrete job opportunities in the most renowned and historic Tattoo Studios, where they have the chance to be constantly in contact with great artists from whom they can learn techniques and secrets, in a continuous exchange that fosters their personal and professional growth.
A great opportunity that provides the necessary practical experience to enter the job market, excel in the Tattoo sector, and open your own Tattoo Studio.
The next course to become a professional tattoo artist at Milano Tattoo School starts in October 2023, and spots are limited.