Body piercing, a form of body art, is the act of penetrating the skin to make, generally permanent in nature, a hole, mark, or scar. It does not include the use of a mechanized, pre-sterilized ear-piercing system that penetrates the outer perimeter or lobe of the ear or both.

In 1999, the Florida Legislature passed section 381.0075, Florida Statutes (F.S.) , providing guidance for operation of the body-piercing industry.  Chapter 64E-19, F.A.C. contains the rules that were written to implement the statute.

There are several body piercing salons in Volusia County that are licensed and inspected by the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County. These salons are inspected annually or more by both an Environmental Specialist and a Registered Nurse.

Body piercing is an invasive procedure that presents the potential for infection. Not only can piercing lead to infections of the pierced site (especially if aftercare procedures are not followed), but it also has the potential to transmit bloodborne pathogens, such as Hepatitis B.

Chapter 64E-19, F.A.C., prescribes the minimum sanitary and safety requirements related to the design, operation, and maintenance of body-piercing salons.

Operators and piercers (defined in subsections 381.0075(2), F.S., and Chapter 64E-19.002, F.A.C., respectively) must be trained in infection-control procedures, prior to licensure of a body-piercing salon. Training courses are reviewed and accepted by the Department of Health, Bureau of Environmental Health, Facility Programs.

In accordance with Chapter 64E-19, F.A.C., owners and operators of body-piercing salons and temporary establishments require an operating license, which is subject to annual renewal.

Body-piercing licenses are issued by many of the Department of Health's county health departments. To apply for a license, complete the application form, and submit it along with the required license fee. Please call to find out the current fee schedule.

Owners and operators of body-piercing salons and temporary establishments also should have an injury-report form, in the event of a report of injury or complaint of injury. Completed forms should be sent to the licensing county health department.