The City of Bismarck passed an ordinance regulating the operation of tanning facilities on November 27, 2007. The city ordinance is a result of a state law governing tanning facilities passed during the last legislative session.

The Environmental Health Division of the Department of Fire and Inspections is charged with the enforcement of the ordinance.

Implementation will begin January 1, 2008; however, tanning facilities are required to comply with the ordinance effective November 27, 2007.

Tanning operators are required to:

Provide staff when tanning facilities are available for useProvide customer education concerning the dangers associated with tanningAppropriate replacement of tubes, bulbs or lampsEnsure that only individuals of appropriate age are permitted to use tanning facilitiesRequire use of approved eyewearTrack frequency of tanning used by the customerProperly clean and sanitize tanning beds; andMaintain customer and maintenance records.

Pre-operational inspections of tanning facilities will be conducted by the department to provide for education and determine compliance with the ordinance prior to the issuance of a permit to operate. All tanning facilities, with the exception of those located in individual dwelling units, are governed under the ordinance. This includes facilities located in condominium type complexes that are shared among users. Permit fees are applied on a per bed basis. Tanning operators are encouraged to contact the Department by telephone at 355-1418 or by email mfischer@nd.gov, if they have any questions.

Click Tanning Ordinance Chapter 08-13 to review the tanning ordinance. | save this article / add to your favorites list