Public health inspectors inspect personal services settings on a regular basis.
Our inspections are directed by the Infection Prevention and Control Protocol, 2019 (Ministry of Health, PDF) and the Personal Service Settings Regulation (e-Laws Ontario).
The regulation sets out minimum standards for operators for:
- cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of equipment
- personal hygiene
- prohibited services
- record keeping
- setting requirements
Personal services
Personal services include, but are not limited to:
- aesthetics such as waxing and facials
- body piercing
- ear piercing
- electrolysis
- hair cutting and barbering
- manicures and pedicures
- tattooing and micropigmentation (permanent make-up)
Inspection results are available online. Check Before You Go!
Proper infection control is important
- Owners and operators who are knowledgeable and have good infection prevention and control practices ensure a safe environment for members of the public.
- It is important for owners and operators to follow proper infection control practices at all times to reduce the risk of blood-borne infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, bacterial and fungal infections.
- Remember, you do not have to see blood or body fluids on equipment or surfaces for infections to spread.
Special events
Special events for personal services can include fairs, expos, and conventions. It is the responsibility of the vendor to meet the requirements of Ontario Regulation 136/18: Personal Service Settings.
Apply for a permit
- Submit a completed Special Event Personal Services Permit to notify Public Health at least 20 days before the event.
- Notify Public Health of any significant changes to the original application.
- List all the services you intend to provide at the event.
- Ensure the personal services requirements listed in the application packages are followed.
- Once the completed application is received, a public health inspector will review the package with the personal service vendor. If approved, a permit will be issued within 10 days from the date the application was approved.
- Animal exhibit application (PDF, 637 KB)
- Food service organizer application (PDF, 1 MB)
- Food service vendor application (PDF, 850 KB)
- Personal service application (PDF, 175 KB)
Contact a public health inspector
In addition to conducting regular compliance inspections, public health inspectors are available to offer education regarding your obligations.
They can provide you with information so that you can ensure that you meet necessary regulatory requirements.
Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For emergencies after-hours and on statutory holidays
Consult with your local municipality (Association of Municipalities of Ontario) to determine if your proposed location meets proper zoning and building requirements. Some municipalities and food premises may require a business license in order to operate a commercial business.