Kamas City Council has taken a significant step towards regulating body art facilities by tabling an ordinance that aims to limit the number of such establishments in the city. During the meeting on September 9, 2025, council members discussed the proposed ordinance, which would restrict the number of body art facilities to two and allow a maximum of two practitioners per facility. This decision is intended to prevent monopolization while fostering healthy competition within the community.
The council emphasized the importance of starting with a limited number of facilities to gauge interest and demand for body art services in Kamas. Currently, there is only one applicant for a body art facility, with a few others expressing interest. The council believes that this cautious approach will allow them to assess the situation before making further adjustments.
Another key point of discussion was the regulation of body art performed on minors. The council agreed to allow body art on minors with parental consent, aligning the ordinance with Utah state law to ensure consistency and ease of enforcement. This change reflects a shift in perspective, recognizing body art as a legitimate form of expression rather than something to be strictly prohibited.
The council also addressed concerns regarding the proximity of body art facilities to schools and parks. While the planning commission initially proposed distancing regulations, some council members questioned the necessity of such measures, arguing that body art does not pose the same risks as alcohol-related businesses. Ultimately, the council decided to exclude churches from the distancing requirements, acknowledging the sporadic nature of their operations.
As the council prepares to finalize the ordinance, they have set a timeline to review the modifications and aim to have a draft ready for the next meeting in two weeks. This proactive approach demonstrates the council's commitment to ensuring that the regulations are well-considered and beneficial for the community.
In conclusion, the Kamas City Council's decision to table the body art facility ordinance reflects a careful and measured approach to regulating this emerging industry. By limiting the number of facilities and practitioners, the council aims to strike a balance between accessibility and community standards, while also ensuring that the regulations align with state laws. The upcoming meeting will be crucial in determining the final shape of these regulations and their implications for Kamas residents.