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Proposal to open Simpsonville to tattoo parlors fails after council expresses zoning and community concerns
Summary
A motion directing the planning commission to consider permitting tattoo parlors and body-piercing businesses failed 2–5 after opponents cited character, enforcement and constituent opposition.
Council member O'Rear moved to direct the planning commission to consider amending the zoning ordinance to allow tattoo parlors and body-piercing establishments; the motion was seconded and then failed on a roll call vote, 2 yes to 5 no.
Proponents argued the current ordinance effectively excludes a single profession and that licensed operators should be allowed to apply for appropriate locations. Opponents raised concerns that such businesses could create additional regulatory burdens for staff and public safety, recounted past enforcement issues with massage businesses and vape stores, and said constituents had not sought this change. Several council members suggested any change should be narrowly tailored — for example, a special use category with detailed location and operating standards — rather than a broad allowance.
Clerk Clark recorded the roll call as: O'Rear (yes), Root (no), Williams (no), Roche (no), Pinkerton (yes), Hutchings (no), Shoemaker (no). The motion failed 2–5.
