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Special Treatments
Licence!
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Public Notice Published
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Planning to offer massages, facials, IPL, laser, acupuncture or similar treatments? You need a Special Treatments Licence
Planning to offer massages, facials, IPL, laser, acupuncture or similar treatments? You need a Special Treatments Licence
Fast
Cheap
100% compliant
Don't worry - at Barnab, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free.
Don't worry - at Barnab, we make the process simple, fast, and hassle-free.
About
A Special Treatment Licence is a local council licence required for businesses offering treatments like massages, facials, manicures, laser hair removal, or other beauty and wellness services
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35 Selwyn Rd, London, Unite...
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About Special Treatments Licence
What is a Special Treatments Licence?
What is a Special Treatments Licence?
A Special Treatment Licence is a local council licence required for businesses offering treatments like massages, facials, manicures, laser hair removal, or other beauty and wellness services
A Special Treatment Licence is a local council licence required for businesses offering treatments like massages, facials, manicures, laser hair removal, or other beauty and wellness services
A Special Treatments Licence is necessary if you wish to open a beauty salon. Common treatments that require a licence include:
A Special Treatments Licence is necessary if you wish to open a beauty salon. Common treatments that require a licence include:
Massage and body treatments
Facials and advanced skincare
IPL and laser treatments
Simple as That
Let us guide you
Step-by-Step: How Your Special Treatments Licence Application Works with Barnab
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Special Treatments Application
Key Information
Here’s what you need to know about the whole process
Key Information
Time for licence grant
4-5 weeks
Time to prepare documents
1-2 days
Barnab assistance fee
£300 + VAT
Council fee (location dependent)
£100-£450
What do you need to provide?
You need to gather the following documents for the application:
Requirements
Floor Plan
A basic sketch or existing layout showing treatment rooms, waiting areas, and WCs. We’ll convert it into a compliant plan.
Insurance Certificate
A proof of public indemnity insurance covering all treatments offered.
Electrical & Safety Certificate
A current electrical safety certificate for the installation at the premises (fuse-box, wiring, lighting etc.). This is often called a Periodic Inspection Report for an Electrical Installation. If you have a gas supply to your premises you must ensure that you have a current gas safety certificate.
List of Treatments
A comprehensive list of all treatments you offer (e.g. massage, laser hair removal, facials).
Therapist Qualifications
For every person offering treatments, upload certificates showing they are qualified to perform them.
Planning Permission
A confirmation of the right planning permission and the correct use class of the property.
Tenancy Agreement
You must prove to the council that you occupy the premises legitimately. Upload a document that proves your right to occupy the premises.
How the process works
Step by step guide to get you through the application process.
Step 1 - Answer
Get the application
form ready via chat
Instead of long confusing forms, we guide you through a simple, conversational chat.
Step 2 - Upload
Submit supporting files to complete the application
We tell you which files you need to submit and review them.
Step 3 - Generate
Generate your
application pack
We generate your application forms and premises plan to make sure you are 100% ready for submission.
We have impactful numbers
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
1500+
Customers satisfied since launch
£1M
In costs saved for the applicants
350
Councils we work with
150%
Company growth
Other like you love us
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
JS
Jennifer Smith
I had a great experience with Barnab. They took all the stress out of a process I had been dreading. Highly recommend them to anyone going through the application process.
SM
Sophie Morrison
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
TF
Tobias Farrow
I can’t recommend Barnab highly enough. Our application approved in just a few weeks, with full support and guidance throughout. Super efficient, cost-effective, and seamless.
PM
Paolo M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Something’s not clear? You will find an answer below!
FAQ
Do I need a special treatment licence for massage therapy?
Yes, if offering massage in Greater London at fixed premises. This includes aromatherapy, sports massage, reflexology, therapeutic massage, and Indian head massage. Mobile therapists working in clients' homes don't need a licence. Premises require both a premises licence and therapist registration.
What beauty treatments need a special treatment licence in London?
Most beauty treatments require licensing including: facials, manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, electrolysis hair removal, laser/IPL treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, eyelash extensions, semi-permanent makeup, microblading, body piercing, tattooing, and sunbed facilities. Check your council's A-Z treatment list or contact Barnab for confirmation.
How much does a special treatment licence cost in London?
Council fees vary by borough and treatment risk level, typically £400-£900 annually for premises licence. High-risk treatments (tattooing, laser, piercing) cost more than low-risk (massage, manicure). Each therapist may need separate registration (£50-£150). Barnab's service fee is £400 + VAT for complete application preparation.
What qualifications do therapists need for special treatment licence?
Therapists need Level 2-3 qualifications (VRQ, NVQ, or QCF) relevant to their treatment. Laser/IPL operators require Level 4-5 qualification plus Core of Knowledge safety training (renewed every 5 years) and specific machine training. Non-UK certificates need ENIC equivalence confirmation. Barnab verifies all qualification requirements during application.
Can I get fined for operating without a special treatment licence?
Yes. Operating or advertising special treatments without valid licence is illegal under London Local Authorities Act 1991. Fines up to £5,000 per offence. Council can issue immediate closure, seize equipment, and prosecute. You cannot legally trade while application pending - must have granted licence before opening.
Am I exempt from special treatment licence requirements?
Exemptions apply if: treatments provided free with no payment/donation, supervised by registered medical practitioner, or you're member of approved professional body (e.g., CNHC for certain therapies). Exemptions vary by borough. Most commercial salons and clinics require full licensing. Barnab checks your exemption eligibility during free consultation.
How long does it take to get a special treatment licence approved?
Typically 6-8 weeks from submission. Must display public notice at premises for 28 days for consultation. Council inspects premises, consults fire service and police, and verifies all therapist qualifications. High-risk treatments (laser, tattoo) may take longer due to additional safety checks. Barnab ensures application completeness to avoid delays.
What documents are needed for special treatment licence application?
Required: detailed premises plan showing treatment rooms and facilities, therapist qualification certificates, passport photos for each therapist, public liability insurance (£5M+ cover), treatment protocols and client consultation forms, waste disposal contracts (clinical waste for tattoo/piercing), fire safety certificate, and council application forms. Barnab prepares all documentation and ensures compliance before submission.
Do I need to submit a new application if I move premises?
Yes. Licences are linked to the specific address. If you relocate, you’ll need to apply for a new Special Treatments Licence for the new location. Your old one does not carry over.
Choose plan
Specal Treatments Licence Application
If you want to open a beauty salon and provide treatments to your customer, your venue needs a special treatments licence.
Total
£300
+ VAT
No complicated forms
100% accurate and hassle-free
Would you like to speak to us?
Choose a time, and we will give you a callback for a free 10-minute consultation!
Special Treatments Application
Key Information
Here’s what you need to know about the whole process
Key Information
Time for licence grant
4-5 weeks
Time to prepare documents
1-2 days
Barnab assistance fee
£300 + VAT
Council fee (location dependent)
£100-£450
What do you need to provide?
You need to gather the following documents for the application:
Requirements
Floor Plan
A basic sketch or existing layout showing treatment rooms, waiting areas, and WCs. We’ll convert it into a compliant plan.
Insurance Certificate
A proof of public indemnity insurance covering all treatments offered.
Electrical & Safety Certificate
A current electrical safety certificate for the installation at the premises (fuse-box, wiring, lighting etc.). This is often called a Periodic Inspection Report for an Electrical Installation. If you have a gas supply to your premises you must ensure that you have a current gas safety certificate.
List of Treatments
A comprehensive list of all treatments you offer (e.g. massage, laser hair removal, facials).
Therapist Qualifications
For every person offering treatments, upload certificates showing they are qualified to perform them.
Planning Permission
A confirmation of the right planning permission and the correct use class of the property.
Tenancy Agreement
You must prove to the council that you occupy the premises legitimately. Upload a document that proves your right to occupy the premises.
How the process works
Step by step guide to get you through the application process.
Step 1 - Answer
Get the application
form ready via chat
Instead of long confusing forms, we guide you through a simple, conversational chat.
Step 2 - Upload
Submit supporting files to complete the application
We tell you which files you need to submit and review them.
Step 3 - Generate
Generate your
application pack
We generate your application forms and premises plan to make sure you are 100% ready for submission.
We have impactful numbers
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
1500+
Customers satisfied since launch
£1M
In costs saved for the applicants
350
Councils we work with
150%
Company growth
Other like you love us
Here’s what we’ve achieved for businesses just like yours - and we’re just getting started.
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
JS
Jennifer Smith
I had a great experience with Barnab. They took all the stress out of a process I had been dreading. Highly recommend them to anyone going through the application process.
SM
Sophie Morrison
From the application to submission everything was flawless. We got our licence without hassle. I highly recommend Barnab. Thank you so much.
TF
Tobias Farrow
I can’t recommend Barnab highly enough. Our application approved in just a few weeks, with full support and guidance throughout. Super efficient, cost-effective, and seamless.
PM
Paolo M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Something’s not clear? You will find an answer below!
FAQ
Do I need a special treatment licence for massage therapy?
Yes, if offering massage in Greater London at fixed premises. This includes aromatherapy, sports massage, reflexology, therapeutic massage, and Indian head massage. Mobile therapists working in clients' homes don't need a licence. Premises require both a premises licence and therapist registration.
What beauty treatments need a special treatment licence in London?
Most beauty treatments require licensing including: facials, manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, electrolysis hair removal, laser/IPL treatments, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, eyelash extensions, semi-permanent makeup, microblading, body piercing, tattooing, and sunbed facilities. Check your council's A-Z treatment list or contact Barnab for confirmation.
How much does a special treatment licence cost in London?
Council fees vary by borough and treatment risk level, typically £400-£900 annually for premises licence. High-risk treatments (tattooing, laser, piercing) cost more than low-risk (massage, manicure). Each therapist may need separate registration (£50-£150). Barnab's service fee is £400 + VAT for complete application preparation.
What qualifications do therapists need for special treatment licence?
Therapists need Level 2-3 qualifications (VRQ, NVQ, or QCF) relevant to their treatment. Laser/IPL operators require Level 4-5 qualification plus Core of Knowledge safety training (renewed every 5 years) and specific machine training. Non-UK certificates need ENIC equivalence confirmation. Barnab verifies all qualification requirements during application.
Can I get fined for operating without a special treatment licence?
Yes. Operating or advertising special treatments without valid licence is illegal under London Local Authorities Act 1991. Fines up to £5,000 per offence. Council can issue immediate closure, seize equipment, and prosecute. You cannot legally trade while application pending - must have granted licence before opening.
Am I exempt from special treatment licence requirements?
Exemptions apply if: treatments provided free with no payment/donation, supervised by registered medical practitioner, or you're member of approved professional body (e.g., CNHC for certain therapies). Exemptions vary by borough. Most commercial salons and clinics require full licensing. Barnab checks your exemption eligibility during free consultation.
How long does it take to get a special treatment licence approved?
Typically 6-8 weeks from submission. Must display public notice at premises for 28 days for consultation. Council inspects premises, consults fire service and police, and verifies all therapist qualifications. High-risk treatments (laser, tattoo) may take longer due to additional safety checks. Barnab ensures application completeness to avoid delays.
What documents are needed for special treatment licence application?
Required: detailed premises plan showing treatment rooms and facilities, therapist qualification certificates, passport photos for each therapist, public liability insurance (£5M+ cover), treatment protocols and client consultation forms, waste disposal contracts (clinical waste for tattoo/piercing), fire safety certificate, and council application forms. Barnab prepares all documentation and ensures compliance before submission.
Do I need to submit a new application if I move premises?
Yes. Licences are linked to the specific address. If you relocate, you’ll need to apply for a new Special Treatments Licence for the new location. Your old one does not carry over.
Choose plan
Special treatments
If you want to open a beauty salon and provide treatments to your customer, your venue needs a special treatments licence.
Total
£300
+ VAT
Would you like to speak to us?
Choose a time, and we will give you a callback for a free 10-minute consultation!
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Check all our services
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Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz
Contact email: licensing@barnab.xyz