Shire of Murray

Application to Open Premises

Businesses wishing undertake duties including: Body Piercing, Tattooing and Hairdressing must first apply through the Shire of Murray’s Environmental Health Department.

For an application to establish a skin penetration premise to be considered, a completed application form must be submitted to the Shire together with the following:

• A plan showing:
• The location of all associated basins, (troughs and hand-basins) supplied with hot and cold water
• All floor and wall finishes i.e. non-slip
• All fixtures and fittings and their associated finishes
• The location and number of work stations
• A list of all the procedures to be undertaken on the premises including (but not limited to) tattooing, piercing, waxing and shaving.

Upon receipt of an application, an Environmental Health Officer will assess compliance with the requirements of the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures. The Shire will then contact you to discuss your application, arrange an inspection of the skin penetration area and assess your level of knowledge about the Code. If the Environmental Health Officer is satisfied with your premises, an approval will be granted subject to conditions.

Skin Penetration or 'Piercing' businesses continue to grow in popularity throughout Australia. Skin penetration procedures include any process involving the piercing, cutting, puncturing, tearing or shaving of the skin or mucous membrane or conjunctiva of the eye.

Code of Practice

The Health (Skin Penetration Procedure) Regulations 1998 adopts the Code of Practice for Skin Penetration Procedures. As such, this Code of Practice is the Shire’s standard in relation to skin penetration practices and premises

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Click here to view a copy of the Department of Health’s Code of Practice.

In accordance with the Regulations, the owner of an establishment must notify the local authority prior to construction, fit out or operation of a skin penetration premise and must also ensure the establishment and procedures comply with the Code. (Penalties up to $1000 per offence).

Note:

After approval, but prior to commencement of any skin penetration business, it is strongly recommended you obtain public liability insurance.

Further Requirements for Home Occupations

In addition to the above approval with Environmental Health Services, planning approval for a home occupation is required to operate a business from a residential property.

Planning approval can be sought by completing an Application for Approval to Commence Development Form - MRS Form 1. Enquiries concerning this matter and any fees involved should be referred to the Shire’s Planning Department.