Hairdressing Salons

If you are building a new premise or altering an existing building you will require Building Consent. A Resource Consent may also be required, so it is important that you consider if there is likely to be any additional staff, parking for customers and signage. You will need to state clearly the type of operations you intend to provide and include plans and information on your proposed activities.

Application Process

Once you are set up and ready to go, you will need to submit an application for Registration of the Premises (PDF file, 267.4 KB).

Application for Registration is required for both New and Existing salons and should be received at least 14 days before you intend to commence operating the business. You need to supply the following information;

  • A completed application form, signed and dated, together the registration fee.
  • An outline plan showing the premises, locations of rooms and appliances.
  • A specification of materials used to finish walls, ceilings and floors, etc (New Premises only).

Things to Consider

Wash-hand basin and sink requirements

You must have at least:

  • One wash hand basin for every 10 service chairs used for hair cutting, with at least one of these within six metres of such chairs, and all must have hot and cold running water supplied to them.
  • Sinks must be supplied with hot and cold running water for the cleaning of equipment.
  • If you intend to wash hair you need to have shampoo basins supplied with hot and cold running water that will be used exclusively for the washing of hair.

Refreshment requirements

If you are planning to serve tea and coffee to your customers, you need to ensure you have space away from the cutting area where this can be prepared. Disposable cups are advisable, however, if crockery cups are used they must be washed thoroughly to protect against the spread of communicable diseases. This can be achieved by either putting them through a dishwasher cycle or handwashing them in hot soapy water and rinsing them with boiling water.

Further Information

The Health (Hairdressers) Regulations 1980 gives a full explanation of the structural criteria and the conduct and practices for hairdressers.