The Scottish Government has taken steps to place tighter controls on skin and body piercing, tattooing and other similar practices, in an effort to reduce the risks to people who choose to have such procedures carried out on their bodies.

Members of South Ayrshire Council's Community Safety Committee were made aware that as from 1 April 2006, under Section 44 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, mandatory licensing of those providing these services will be introduced.

Also any person who operates a business providing services such as acupuncture, cosmetic body piercing, or electrolysis, will require a specific licence. Only registered medical practitioners within hospitals and independent clinics will be exempt.

The new legislation provides guidelines in relation to premises and their facilities, and standard conditions to be imposed with regards to hygiene and equipment, whether the applicant is operating "wholly or mainly from premises" or not. Additional conditions may also be imposed at the discretion of the Licensing Authority.

Officers of the Council will have the power to inspect licensed premises and the power to search unlicensed premises.

Members of the Committee decided that the Council's Depute Chief Executive, and Director of Development, Safety, and Regulation should have delegated powers to grant licences for a three year period, following consultation with the Police and Environmental Health Officers, and be able to attach appropriate conditions.

Notices will be placed in the local press advising people that as from 1 April 2006 a licence will be required to operate skin and body piercing, tattooing and other related services. It will advise people that the cost of an application for grant/renewal involving premises will be £280, and that an application for grant/renewal not involving premises will be £200.

Environmental Health staff will be writing to all premises and practitioners in South Ayrshire that will be affected by the new legislation and the need for them to apply for a licence.

Anyone who would like further information about the new regulations should contact Environmental Health Officers on telephone number 01292 618222 or log onto the Council's website at www.south-ayrshire.gov.uk/environmentalhealth

February 2006