Tennessee Tattooing Laws
Tattooing in Tennessee is regulated by state laws to ensure safety and hygiene standards are met during tattoo procedures. These regulations apply to both tattoo artists and clients to maintain a safe environment and reduce health risks. Adhering to Tennessee tattooing regulations is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of both tattoo artists and clients. For any questions regarding our compliance with state laws or specific regulations, please feel free to contact us directly.
Licensing requirements:
Tattoo artists and tattoo studios must be licensed in Tennessee. Licenses are issued by the Tennessee Department of Health after meeting specific requirements, which may include completing training in bloodborne pathogens and proper sterilization techniques.
Health and Safety Standards
Tennessee law mandates strict health and safety standards for tattooing. These include using sterile equipment, single-use needles, and maintaining a clean and sanitized workspace. Regular inspections by health authorities ensure compliance with these standards.
Age Restrictions
. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 62, Chapter 38, Part 2, Section 62-38-211 (c)(1): “With the written consent of the parent or legal guardian, a minor sixteen (16) years of age or older may be tattooed to cover up an existing tattoo. A parent or legal guardian must present proof of guardianship or custody of the minor, an acknowledgement of receipt of a report provided pursuant to subdivision (b)(2), and must be present during the procedure.” This means no minors are legally allowed to get tattoos unless they are to cover an existing tattoo, and also have parental consent.
Design and Content Restrictions
Tennessee regulations do not explicitly restrict tattoo designs or content. However, tattoo artists have the legal right to refuse to perform a tattoo for various reasons. This includes ethical concerns over offensive or discriminatory designs, considerations of health and safety such as tattoos over scars or in infection-prone areas, and adherence to legal standards regarding copyright and trademarked designs. Additionally, artists may decline tattoos if they believe the design poses a health risk to the client or if they have ethical objections. Clear policies and respectful communication of these guidelines help ensure professional standards are maintained while prioritizing the safety and satisfaction of both the artist and the client.
Aftercare Guidelines
After receiving a tattoo, clients are advised to follow proper aftercare guidelines, including keeping the tattoo clean, applying recommended ointments, and avoiding exposure to sunlight or water that could affect healing.
Resources and Links:
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/health/documents/Tattoo_law.pdf