The Cosmetology Act and By-Laws & Policies

The Nova Scotia Cosmetology Act, 2012, c. 39 (the “Cosmetology Act”) and its By-Laws are pieces of legislation by which the Association is guided. These legal documents outline the criteria required to become a member of the Association. Members are industry professionals such as Hairdressers, Estheticians, Nail Technicians, Make-up Artists, and Eyelash Technicians.
To view the Cosmetology Act, click here.
To view the Association's By-laws (updated April 1, 2023), click here.
By-laws, Schedule B (Fees), click here (effective as of May 15, 2023).
Please note: increase in licence and permit fees effective upon renewal for 2024.
Ministerial approval, click here.
Certificate of Resolution and By-law Amendments, click here.
To view the Cosmetology Association Policies & Procedures manual, click here.
Safe Body Art Act
The Safe Body Art Act and regulations help to ensure safe practices for businesses offering services like Tattooing, Piercing, and Microblading.
Please note: The Cosmetology Association does not enforce the Safe Body Art Act. For more information regarding the Safe Body Art Act, please contact the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Please note: The Cosmetology Association does not enforce the Safe Body Art Act. For more information regarding the Safe Body Art Act, please contact the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change.
To view the Safe Body Art Act click here.
To view its Regulations click here.
Please note: The Cosmetology Association of Nova Scotia does not provide permits for services that fall within the jurisdiction of the Safe Body Art Act.
The Association will, however, offer information during an inspection regarding the Safe Body Art Act to its Members, salons, and spas.
A list of services covered under the Safe Body Art Act are noted below.
- Microblading
- Permanent and Semi-Permanent Make-up
- Tattooing
- Piercing