Clearlake planning commission approves conditional use permit for tattoo studio at 15140 Lakeshore Drive

The Clearlake Planning Commission on June 10 unanimously approved a conditional use permit allowing a tattoo studio to operate at 15140 Lakeshore Drive.

Staff told commissioners the proposal qualifies for a categorical exemption as an existing facility (CEQA Class 1) because it involves use of an existing building without an expansion that would intensify environmental impacts. Senior planner Mark Robertson said Lake County Environmental Health will continue to require standard permits and inspections for the operation.

Applicant Val Barrett told the commission he has about 20 years of experience and has completed exterior improvements to the building. “I specialize in black and gray realism… I also do a lot of color as well, and I'm versatile in a lot of styles,” Barrett said. Staff clarified that the use permit is tied to the building: if the operator moved, a new conditional use permit would be required for a different location.

Commissioners asked about the quality of applicant-submitted photos and whether required infrastructure (for example, sewer access for monitoring) was in place; Robertson said special districts and Lake County staff had coordinated on those facility requirements and that any outstanding access or permitting matters would be addressed as part of final permitting and inspections.

The commission voted by roll call with these results: Commissioner Silva — aye; Commissioner Counts — aye; Commissioner Ailes — aye; Vice Chair Smalley — aye; Chair Williams — aye. The motion to adopt the resolution (PC2025‑04) carried unanimously.

The decision authorizes the proposed use at the specified property subject to the conditions of approval included in the resolution; staff said standard health, safety and permitting requirements will remain in force and any on-site improvements must pass required inspections before full operation.