Hairdressers registration

Summary of requirements

To run a hairdressing or barbers business within the London Borough of Wandsworth you will need to register with us. There is no requirement to register if your business solely involves the provision of hairdressing to people in their homes or in residential accommodation such as care homes.

You are required to keep a copy of the certificate of registration prominently displayed in your premises. The law also requires that a copy of any byelaws made under Section 77 of the Public Health Act 1961 should also be displayed, where applicable. This Council has not made any byelaws under Section 77.

Eligibility criteria

No provision in the legislation.

Application evaluation process

Before applying for registration you must ensure that you have the necessary planning permission to carry on the business of a hairdresser or barber. A certificate of registration will not be issued where planning permission has not been granted.

We shall issue a certificate of registration within 14 days of receipt of your application provided you have the necessary planning consent.

Will tacit consent apply?

Yes. This means that you will be able to act as though your application is granted if you have not heard from us by the end of the target completion period.

What can I do if my application is refused?

Please contact us at the address below:

What if I have a query about my registration?

Please contact Wandsworth Council's Licensing Section (contact details above).

European services directive

If you think that the Council has not complied with the European services directive by imposing requirements or conditions in respect of your application that are discriminatory, unfair or disproportionate, please contact:

Email: solvit@bis.gsi.gov.uk

Consumer complaints about a hairdressing business

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked and you are located in the UK, Consumer Direct will give you advice. From outside the UK, contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Alternatively, contact the Council's Licensing Section (see above for contact details).

Other complaints

If you are concerned about the operation of any hairdressing/barber business in the borough of Wandsworth (e.g. on the grounds of noise, health and safety, etc), please contact the Licensing Section (contact details above).

Trade associations

• Freelance Hair and Beauty Federation
• Guild of Hairdressers
• Hairdressing Council
• National Hairdressers' Federation

Health and safety

Before setting up any business in the UK, you must also ensure that it will comply with the relevant health and safety regulations. Please see the links below for further information:

• Wandsworth Council's Health and safety web pages
• Health and Safety Executive web pages