How to Build a Barbershop in Los Angeles and Orange County
And How It’s Different from Building a Coffee Shop
Opening a barbershop in Los Angeles or Orange County may seem simpler than opening a café, but construction and permitting still require careful planning. Barbershops are regulated differently from food businesses, and the biggest challenges usually involve plumbing, sanitation, and licensing requirements rather than kitchens or ventilation.
This guide explains how to build a barbershop in Southern California and highlights the key differences compared to a coffee shop.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Space for a Barbershop
When selecting a location for a barbershop in Los Angeles or Orange County, the most important factor is plumbing access. Every barber station requires proximity to approved sinks, and in many cities, shampoo bowls must be directly connected to hot and cold water with proper drainage. Spaces that already had salon or barber use are often the easiest to convert, while dry retail spaces can require significant plumbing upgrades that increase costs.
Unlike coffee shops, barbershops usually don’t require specialized ventilation, but they do need enough square footage per chair to meet health and accessibility requirements. Ceiling height, natural light, and storage space also play a role in daily comfort and efficiency.
Step 2: Permits, Health & Licensing Requirements
Barbershops in California are regulated primarily by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, not the Health Department like coffee shops. However, building permits are still required for construction, plumbing, electrical work, and accessibility upgrades. Many owners assume licensing is separate from construction, but the layout must support licensed operations, including proper sink placement and sanitation flow.
This is a major difference from coffee shops, where food safety, grease management, and fire suppression are often the dominant concerns.
Step 3: Barbershop Build-Out & Layout Planning
Barbershop construction focuses heavily on interior layout and workflow. Chair spacing, mirror placement, electrical outlets, and lighting quality all affect how efficiently barbers can work. Plumbing for shampoo bowls is often the most expensive part of the build-out, especially in older buildings where trenching or concrete cutting is required.
Compared to a coffee shop, barbershop build-outs typically involve less mechanical complexity but require more precision in station placement and sanitation compliance.
Step 4: Budgeting for a Barbershop in LA & OC
Barbershop build-out costs in Los Angeles and Orange County are usually lower than coffee shop construction, but costs can rise quickly if the space lacks plumbing infrastructure. Electrical upgrades for lighting, outlets, and barber equipment are common, and ADA restroom upgrades are frequently required.
Unlike coffee shops, barbershops don’t require commercial kitchen equipment, grease interceptors, or fire-rated hood systems, which often keeps costs more predictable.
Step 5: Inspections, Licensing & Opening
Before opening, the barbershop must pass building inspections and meet the operational requirements of the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. While there is no traditional Health Department inspection like a café, inspectors can still review sanitation setup and sink access.
Once construction is approved and licensing is in place, opening a barbershop is often faster than opening a coffee shop, assuming no major corrections are required.
Do I need permits to open a barbershop in California?
Yes. Opening a barbershop in Los Angeles or Orange County requires building permits for any construction, plumbing, electrical work, or layout changes. Even if the space looks “ready,” permits are usually required.
Do barbershops need Health Department approval?
No. Barbershops are not regulated by the Health Department like restaurants or coffee shops. Instead, they are overseen by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Do I need a license to open a barbershop?
Yes. The barbers working in the shop must be licensed by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, and the shop itself must be properly registered and approved for operation.
How many sinks are required in a barbershop?
Barbershops must have approved sinks for sanitation and shampooing, depending on services offered. Sink placement and access are reviewed during permitting and licensing.
Can I open a barbershop in any retail space?
No. The space must allow personal service use and meet plumbing, restroom, and accessibility requirements. Dry retail spaces often require plumbing upgrades to support barber stations.
How long does it take to open a barbershop in Los Angeles or Orange County?
Timelines vary, but barbershops typically open faster than restaurants. Delays usually come from plumbing work, permit approvals, or layout corrections.
Do barbershops need ADA-compliant restrooms?
Yes. In most cases, barbershops must comply with ADA accessibility requirements, including restroom access, door clearances, and pathways.
Do barbershops need special ventilation?
Most barbershops do not require special ventilation systems. However, adequate general ventilation and compliance with building code requirements are still required.
How much does it cost to build a barbershop?
Costs depend on space condition, number of stations, and plumbing needs. Spaces with existing salon infrastructure are usually less expensive to convert.
What inspections are required before opening?
Barbershops must pass building inspections for construction work and meet operational requirements for licensing. Fire Department inspections may also be required depending on occupancy.
What is the biggest mistake first-time barbershop owners make?
The most common mistake is choosing a space without adequate plumbing. Adding water and drainage later is often the biggest and most expensive surprise.
