A cut above: outdated hairdressing rules to be trimmed

Cabinet has agreed with the findings and recommendations from the Ministry for Regulation’s review into hairdressing and barbering regulations.

The Review found the current regulations are outdated and not fit for purpose and recommends that they be revoked.

These are rules like how far apart salon seats should be, how bright the lights in the business are, and whether you can have a cup of coffee with your cut.

The Review found that while there are health risks associated with the hairdressing and barbering industry, those risks can be managed by existing health and safety, building regulations, and general public health requirements.

The Ministry for Regulation will work with the Ministry of Health on guidance for the industry related to hygiene, disinfection and sanitation practices in salons and shops to manage public health risks. 

This will be published when the existing regulations are revoked and will accompany WorkSafe’s existing health and safety guidance for the industry. 

The Ministry for Regulation will monitor the impacts on the industry and report back to Government on effectiveness in two years.  

More information

Read more about the Review, including full and summary reports:

Hairdressing and barbering industry regulatory review

Hairdressing and Barbering Industry Regulatory Review - Final Report - May 2025

Hairdressing and Barbering Industry Regulatory Review - Summary Report - May 2025

Hairdressing and barbering regulations given the cut | Ministerial press release open_in_new