Tanning

There are risks associated with overexposure to ultraviolet light from tanning beds and booths as there is with overexposure to sunlight. Tanning facility staff will advise you about the maximum exposure time for the particular device you will use, the operation of emergency shutoff controls, the requirement for protective eyewear, and the location of personal hygiene facilities. Tanning bed surfaces and protective eyewear must be sanitized between uses.

Tanning facilities may only allow customers to tan once within a 24 hour period.

If you wish to open a tanning facility or add tanning devices to your current business, you must obtain an operational license. The Health Department in Charlotte County monitors the facility's operation through regular inspections to assure that required sanitary standards are maintained. Requirements for opening an indoor tanning facility include:

• Provide a plan of the tanning facility. The plan should show barrier walls or other devices that will shield the view of waiting customers and passers-by from UV light. The plan should also include the location of restrooms. The plan does not have to be an architect or engineer drawing.
• Ensure that employees that assist customers or operate tanning devices are formally trained in the operation and maintenance of those devices. The Florida Department of Health recognizes the training providers on the right side of this page-
• The Health Department inspection and approval of the facility before the license is granted.

FAQ's about Spray-On Tanning 

The Florida Department of Health works with tanning facilities that provide services using tanning devices that emit electromagnetic radiation of wavelengths between 200 and 400 nanometers. There are many devices that are ultraviolet free, which are used to create the appearance of the perfect tan. Currently the Department does not work with 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 (FDA) regulates and approves the chemicals used in alternative tanning methods. For further information can be found on the FDA website.

Tanning Application and Equipment List (151 KB PDF)

Sample Operating and Safety Plan (201 KB PDF)

Tanning Facility Injury Report (24 KB PDF)

Danger Ultraviolet Radiation (91 KB PDF)

Listing of Tanning Facility Sanitizers (423 KB PDF)

Tanning Facility Inspection Checklist (195 KB PDF)

Sample Client Card (273 KB PDF)

Approved Tanning Training Courses (63 KB PDF)

Medications that Cause Photosensitivity (203 KB PDF)