Body art

Body art is defined as art where the body is used as the medium, and includes tattoos, piercings, microblading and permanent makeup. As body art has become more popular, so has the increased chance to spread blood-borne pathogens, including Hepatitis B,  Hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To reduce the risk of transmitting disease and safeguard residents, Macomb County enacted the Regulations Governing Body Art Establishments in Macomb County, Michigan in 2009. All body art establishments and activities in the county must comply with these regulations.

Michigan enacted Public Act 375 in 2010 setting statewide requirements, including all body art performed in the state must be done in a facility licensed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The Macomb County Health Department enforces these regulations.

Under the regulations, all body art and permanent cosmetic establishments must have Health Department approval and individuals performing body art or permanent cosmetics may do so only in a licensed establishment. Prior to opening a new  or remodeled facility, a Plan Review Application must be submitted to this department. A body art license application may be submitted upon approval of the submitted plans.

Other major requirements of the regulations include:

•  Facility equipment and construction standards
• Operational standards
• Annual inspection requirement
• Plan review for new or remodeled facilities
• Must register as medical waste producing facility with the state of Michigan

Complaints

If you would like to file a complaint against a licensed body art facility using MDHSS’s online complaint form.

You may also file a body art complaint about someone conducting procedures outside of a licensed facility by completing a complaint form and submitting it. The form may be submitted by email, fax or mail. You may also contact our office at 586-469-5236.

• Tattoos and Permanent Cosmetics  
• Think Before You Ink