FAQ about opening a Salon Suite in New Jersey

Since salon suites are so new to the state of New Jersey, there are some things to keep in mind as the NJ Board of Cosmetology has some unique regulations. Here are some common questions and their answers regarding opening your suite in NJ.

Do I need a license to rent a suite at J suites?

Whether your suite is for Cosmetology and Hairstyling, Barbering, Skin Care, Waxing, Massage, Manicuring, or Hair Braiding, you need to have held that license from the Board of Cosmetology for a minimum of 3 years in order to apply for a shop license in the state of New Jersey. That goes for any salon suites in the state.

Can I share a suite with someone else?

Yes, at J Suites we allow two people to own a suite together and we have no additional charges for suite sharing! In order to do so, however, you need to both be partners in the LLC, incorporation papers, or some other document that legally proves ownership by both parties.

I want to open a barber suite. Is there anything different I need?

Barbers need to have special equipment to be approved. There must be at least one chair with an adjustable headrest suitable for performing shaving services in a barber suite.

What services are not allowed to be performed in a salon suite?

There are some services that the NJ Board of Cosmetology does not allow in any salon, including in salon suites. These include but are not limited to:

- Eyebrow and eyelash tinting

- Fish pedicures

- Ear candle services

- Medical services such as Botox

- Teeth whitening

- Permanent makeup

- Body piercing

Please see the board regulations for more information on forbidden practices in suites governed by the board of Cosmetology. This does not apply to suites not governed by the Cosmo Board.

Do suites get walk-ins?

Not all salon suites get walk ins. Most have a locked front door so no one can enter the building without an appointment. At J Suites, though, we have a full time receptionist at the door, so when someone comes in to see what we're about, we can explain that we're a beauty collective and hand out business cards, or even schedule an appointment for you!

How much does it cost to start up a salon suite?

At J Suites, we collect a security deposit which you would get back when you leave as long as everything in your suite is returned the way it was given to you. The board's salon license application fee is $150 and Initial license fee is either $100 or $200 depending on where the board is in their renewal cycle. There are some additional charges like filing for you LLC or sole proprietorship with the state of NJ, but all in it should not cost more than $500 total to get all of this done.

Where can I find more information?

- The Board of Cosmetology in NJ has a website where you can find more information.

- The State of New Jersey has a business navigator that help you determine what registrations you will need.

- And NJ has a pretty impressive website to answer any questions, including the option to chat with an expert.

- Read more about the 6 steps to opening your salon suite here.