Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County's (DOH-Charlotte) Environmental Public Health ensures Charlotte County, Florida, tanning establishments and devices, as defined by Florida Statutes, do not pose any undue risk to patrons.

DOH-Charlotte works with tanning facilities that provide services using tanning devices that emit electromagnetic radiation of wavelengths between 200 and 400 nanometers. 

Currently, DOH-Charlotte does not inspect tanning devices that are ultraviolet free. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates and approves the chemicals used in alternative tanning methods.

Tanning Clients

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 clients about the maximum exposure time for the specific device to be used, 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. 

Tanning Facility Operators

If you wish to open a tanning facility or add tanning devices to your current business, you must obtain an operational license from DOH-Charlotte, which monitors the facilities' operation through regular inspections to assure that required sanitary standards are maintained. 

Requirements for opening an indoor tanning facility in Charlotte County, Florida, include: 

• Provide a plan of the tanning facility: The plan must show barrier walls or other devices that will shield others from the UV light and include the location of restrooms. The plan does not have to be an architect or engineer drawing. 
• Trained Employees: Tanning facility operators must make sure that employees who assist customers or operate tanning devices are formally trained in the operation and maintenance of tanning devices. 
• Inspection: DOH-Charlotte must inspect and approve the facility before the license is granted. 

For more information about Florida tanning facility rules and regulations, visit the Florida Department of Health's Tanning Facilities webpage.