Body Art

Is It Safe?
As these procedures pierce the skin, the potential to introduce blood borne pathogens creates the risk of infection. There are also concerns regarding the potential toxicity of certain heavy metals and pigments that are utilized during these procedures. Potential health risks include:

• HIV/AIDS
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Bacterial and/or viral infections
• Allergic Reactions

 Regulations

Assembly Bill 300 (The Safe Body Art Act) was signed into law on October 9, 2011 by Governor Jerry Brown. This law is effective January 1, 2012.

 Inyo County Program

Inyo County does not have an ordinance governing body art practice. However, the county Environmental Health Services Department does register and permit these facilities.

Our program includes guidelines, interim standards, and the establishment of an exposure control plan. Facilities are inspected annually.

Body Art Guidelines (PDF)

Interim Standards For Tattooing, Body Piercing And Permanent Cosmetics (PDF)

Body Art Exposure Control Plan (PDF)

Tattooing, Body Piercing, And Permanent Cosmetics Application For Registration (PDF)

Hepatitis B Declination Statement (PDF)