A new California law expands who must be present when services are performed—and most salon owners haven't heard about it yet.
Most salon and barbershop owners in California don't realize that a provision buried in SB1363 is about to change how they staff their chairs. Starting September 14, 2026, every establishment will face a new compliance requirement that affects scheduling, hiring, and day-to-day operations.
Under SB1363, Section 14 (amending Section 7348 of the Business and Professions Code), establishments must have a licensed person physically in charge whenever any service is being performed. That licensed person must hold one of these credentials:
The key word here is "during." This isn't about who opens or closes the salon. It means a licensed person must be present and in charge for the entire duration that services are happening.
The prior rule allowed apprentices to work without a licensed person present under certain conditions. SB1363 closes that exception. Even if you have experienced, skilled apprentices or unlicensed staff performing services, a licensed professional must be on-site and responsible.
This creates what regulators call a "continuous staffing compliance obligation." In practical terms: you can't have a shift where only unlicensed staff are providing services, even if they're highly trained or nearly ready to test for licensure.
This applies to all personal care establishments in California—barbershops, hair salons, nail salons, esthetic studios, and electrolysis clinics. Whether you're a solo operator, a small shop with two chairs, or a larger establishment, the requirement is the same: licensed presence during service hours.
For multi-chair operations, this doesn't necessarily mean one licensed person per chair. But it does mean you can't operate a service station without at least one qualifying licensed professional on duty.
The law takes effect on September 14, 2026—giving owners roughly 18 months to adjust staffing models, scheduling systems, and hiring plans. This isn't a distant deadline; it's time enough to plan but soon enough to require action.
Establishments that don't comply risk citations from the California Department of Consumer Affairs, which oversees barbering and cosmetology licensing. Violations can result in fines and potential license suspension.
Review your current staffing schedule against the new requirement. If you rely on apprentices or unlicensed staff during any service hours, you'll need to adjust. Consider whether you need to hire additional licensed staff, restructure shifts, or modify your service model.
Document your compliance plan. Keep records showing that a licensed person was in charge during operating hours—this protects you if regulators ever question your practices.
The California Department of Consumer Affairs and industry trade associations have published guidance on SB1363 compliance. Your salon association or local chamber of commerce may offer a free, business-specific resource to help you understand the full scope of this requirement.
Source: SB1363, Section 14, amending California Business and Professions Code Section 7348. Effective September 14, 2026.