The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 requires that the following types of skin piercing be registered with the City Council; Acupuncture, Tattooing and Electrolysis. The Local Government Act 2003 has also given powers to local authorities to register operators who carry out Cosmetic Skin Piercing (including ear piercing) or Semi Permanent Skin Colouring.

Registration covers both the person carrying on the practice and the premises used for that purpose. There are no powers to refuse registration, but the practice is controlled through compliance with bylaws.

Anyone carrying on such a business who is not registered should apply for a licence by contacting Technical Services and appropriate information and/or forms will be provided. An initial inspection of the premises will be carried out, followed by an annual inspection, upon renewal of the licence