Tanning Salons

The Tanning Salon Inspection Program is designed to protect the public from exposure to UV radiation by regulating the use of equipment in tanning salons.  Also, communicable diseases are prevented by inspecting the facility for sanitary operations.  The governing authority for this program is Florida Statute 381.89 and Florida Administrative Code 64E-17 (27.76kb; pdf).

The Florida Department of Health regulates tanning devices that emit electromagnetic radiation of wavelengths between 200 and 400 nanometers.  These devices will expose users to ultraviolet radiation just like having exposure to sunlight.  The difference is the exposure is controlled by a timer.

Inspections are conducted at a minimum of once a year and entail (but are not limited to):

• Inspection of tanning devices
• Functionality of emergency shutoff controls on tanning device
• Cleaning Protocol
• Use of Protective Eyewear
• Display of warning signs and other documentation regarding overexposure risks associated with ultraviolet radiation
• Record review for tanning exposure times and tanning of “minors”
• Location and condition of bathroom facilities

An Operation License is issued after:

• Permit Application through our department Tanning Salon Permit Application (19.2kb; pdf)
• Submittal of floor plans and documentation of devices meeting manufacturer standards Code of Federal Regulations on Light emitting products and standards set forth in Florida Administrative Code 64E-17 (27.76kb; pdf)
• Payment of fee
• Successful completion of the “Opening” Health Inspection and subsequent inspections.  
• Proof of “required training” through the Department of Health.  All persons employed who work in the Tanning Facility are required to have initial training through the Department of Health Approved Training Courses

UV Free Tanning

There are many devices that are ultraviolet free, which are used to create the appearance of the perfect tan. Currently the Department does not regulate these types of products or devices. The most asked about products are airbrush tanning and spray-on tanning. These products use dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which interacts with the skin to produce a bronze color. The Federal Food and Drug Administration regulate and approve the chemicals used in alternative tanning methods. For further information about these products click on the links below:

Federal Food and Drug Administration Q & A on Sunless Tanners