Definition

Barbershops offer the following hair and beard services to men and boys:

• Cut
• Groom
• Style
• Shave

Salons provide services such as: 

• Haircuts
• Hair color
• Hairstyling
• Facials
• Make-up
• Manicures

Get your license

Review the steps to receive and maintain a license.  You can find information from the City about:  

• How to start a new business
• Tips for opening your business 

Connect with a small business consultant

Building a relationship with a small business consultant can be a crucial step in your journey as an entrepreneur. The Minneapolis Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP) is able to connect you to business training, support and advice for opening your business. 

Access the Small Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP)

Understand the requirements

Barbershops, hair and nail salons are licensed by the State of Minnesota.

Barbers/Barbershops/Barber Schools license

Read the barber related licensing requirements

Cosmetology - Salon license

• A Cosmetologist Salon License is required to offer hair services.
• If your business offers skin services or nail services, but does not offer hair services, your business must apply for an Esthetician Salon License and/or a Nail Technician Salon License.

Read the cosmetology/nail salon licensing requirements

See license lookup and renewal and continuing education requirements

The state requires a salon to have a Designated Licensed Salon Manager (DLSM) on site.

Read the frequently asked questions related to a salon manager

Tasks to do before submitting your license application

You'll need to gather many items before you are ready to complete your application with the state.

Some of the information you'll need include:

• Current professional liability insurance
• Worker’s compensation insurance
• Diagram of barbershop or salon floor plan
• Certificate of Occupancy from the City

See how to schedule a Certificate of Occupancy inspection

Request Sewer Availability Charge (SAC)

You may have to pay a fee for the waste water from your business.

• Apply for your SAC fee early. This fee can be expensive.
• After you apply, the Met Council will send you a SAC determination letter in 10 – 15 days. This letter will tell you your SAC fee.
• Apply online for your SAC fee

Find out if you qualify for the City's SAC deferral program for small businesses.  

Read about SAC basics

More information

Review and consider all requirements when starting your business.

See information about your operating your business

Tell your new neighbors about your business

Contact your council member, neighborhood organization, and business association where your business will be located.

• Promote and create interest in your business
• Network with local residents and leaders
• Learn about resources they may offer small businesses

Send an email to your:

• City council member
• Neighborhood organization
• Business association

See a sample letter

After you open

Expand your business

The City offers financing to help you cover costs of expansion, such as equipment. Contact your Development Coordinator who can guide you through city requirements.

If you change equipment or add seating to your business, you may need to:

• Update your SAC determination 
• Submit a new food plan 
• Get an additional license 

Look at the City’s business resources