North Carolina § 14-400 - Tattooing; body piercing prohibited.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 14-400 — Tattooing; body piercing prohibited., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-400. Tattooing; body piercing prohibited.
It shall be unlawful for any person or persons to tattoo the arm, limb, or any part of the body of any other person under 18 years of age. Anyone violating the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor. It shall be unlawful for any person to pierce any part of the body other than ears of another person under the age of 18 for the purpose of allowing the insertion of earrings, jewelry, or similar objects into the body, unless the prior consent of a custodial parent or guardian is obtained. Anyone violating the provisions of this section is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor. History (1937, c. 112, ss. 1, 2; 1969, c. 1224, s. 8; 1971, c. 1231, s. 1; 1993, c. 539, s. 269; 1994, Ex. Sess., c. 24, s. 14(c); 1998-230, s. 9.) Legal Periodicals. - For comment, "Barbie Can Get a Tattoo, Why Can't I? First Amendment Protection of Tattooing in a Barbie World," see 46 Wake Forest L. Rev. 331 (2011).
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 14-400
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 14-400 cover?
Section 14-400 ("Tattooing; body piercing prohibited.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite North Carolina § 14-400?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 14-400" (North Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of North Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
How does North Carolina § 14-400 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Carolina.