In Wisconsin, the practice of tattooing is governed by state laws and administrative rules. These regulations protect public health by ensuring procedures are performed by qualified individuals in sanitary environments. The laws establish clear guidelines for who can receive a tattoo, who can perform one, and the conditions under which they must operate.
Wisconsin’s Age Requirements for Tattoos
According to Wisconsin Statute § 948.70, it is illegal to tattoo anyone under the age of 18.1Wisconsin Legislature. 948.70 Tattooing of Children This prohibition applies even with the consent of a parent or guardian. Tattoo establishments are required to post signs in a conspicuous place stating that no person under 18 may be tattooed.
An exception exists for medical procedures performed by a physician in the course of their professional practice. This narrow allowance is for medical purposes and does not apply to cosmetic tattooing.
Licensing Rules for Tattoo Artists and Parlors
Both individual tattoo artists and the establishments where they work must be licensed in Wisconsin.2Justia. Wisconsin Statutes § 463.10: Regulation of Tattooists and Tattooing Establishments The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) oversees this licensing process, though it may designate local health departments as its agents to issue licenses and conduct inspections.
To receive a practitioner’s license, an artist must be at least 18 years old. They must also complete required training courses covering topics such as bloodborne pathogens, communicable diseases, and first aid.
Tattoo establishments, or parlors, must also secure and maintain a valid license to operate. This license is contingent on passing a pre-licensing inspection to verify the facility meets all sanitary and safety standards. Licenses for both artists and establishments expire annually on June 30th and must be renewed.
Mandatory Health and Safety Practices
Wisconsin’s administrative code mandates health and safety protocols for all licensed tattoo establishments.3Wisconsin Legislature. Chapter SPS 221: Tattooing and Body Piercing Before a procedure, artists must obtain signed, informed consent, inquire about relevant medical conditions, and maintain a patron record for at least two years.
Sanitation and sterilization procedures are required.
- Artists must wash their hands and wear new, single-use gloves for each client.
- All reusable equipment must be sterilized using an approved autoclave, with regular spore testing to confirm its effectiveness.
- To prevent cross-contamination, needles must be sterile, single-use, and disposed of in a designated sharps container.
- Inks must be dispensed into single-use containers for each client.
The physical environment is also regulated. Procedural areas must have smooth, non-porous, and easily cleanable surfaces. A separate sink must be available for cleaning equipment, distinct from the handwashing sink. Following the procedure, the artist must provide both verbal and written aftercare instructions to help the client prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
Consequences of Violating Tattoo Laws
Failure to comply with Wisconsin’s tattoo laws carries consequences enforced by the DSPS and its local agents. For licensed artists and establishments, violations can result in official warnings, monetary fines, and the suspension or revocation of a license.
Tattooing a person under 18 is illegal. This violation results in a civil monetary penalty for the artist who performs the tattoo.