City Council Reviews Tattoo Shop Distance Regulations Amid Planning Board Support

During a recent meeting of the New Bedford Ordinance Committee, significant discussions took place regarding the regulations surrounding tattoo parlors in the city. The committee expressed a consensus to remove the distance restrictions between tattoo shops and other businesses, while maintaining the rule that prohibits two tattoo parlors from operating within close proximity to each other.

The Board of Health indicated their support for these changes, confirming that as long as health requirements are met, they have no concerns about the proposed adjustments. This decision comes after a review of the current landscape of body art establishments, which have reportedly complied with health regulations and have not generated significant complaints over the past few years.

The Planning Board also weighed in on the matter, noting that the original separation distances were established due to concerns about the concentration of body art establishments and their potential impact on neighborhoods. However, members of the board acknowledged that societal perceptions of tattoos have evolved, and there has been a noticeable lack of negative consequences associated with tattoo parlors in the city.

Councilor Lopes highlighted the importance of allowing businesses to flourish and revitalize underutilized properties. He emphasized that the Planning Board's support for removing the distance restrictions would benefit the industry and the community.

While the committee is moving forward with these changes, some councilors raised concerns about the implications for existing businesses that complied with the original regulations. They questioned whether removing these restrictions might create an uneven playing field for those who had previously adhered to the rules.

As the committee prepares to finalize these changes, the discussions reflect a broader shift in attitudes toward body art and its place within the community. The ordinance changes are expected to facilitate growth in the local tattoo industry while balancing the interests of neighborhood residents and existing businesses.