Council approves limited-use permit for fine-line tattoo studio at 3999 Bridal, Suite A

Grove City Council approved Ordinance C15-25 on second reading and public hearing to allow “Ink Therapy,” a fine-line tattoo and permanent makeup operation, at 3999 Bridal, Suite A.

Britney Hollowell, the applicant, told council the business will function as a by-appointment, single-operator studio offering fine-line tattoos and aesthetic services such as facials and waxing. Hollowell described the operation as a “body art boutique” rather than a walk-in tattoo shop and said Franklin County Public Health has already provided approval for the services she will offer.

Planning staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval, with staff noting the code does not list tattoo parlors as a permitted use by right and Council must grant a site-specific use approval. Staff cautioned that the approval runs with the property, so a future tenant could seek the same use at that address if the current operator leaves.

During the hearing councilmembers reiterated their concerns about storefront visibility and the potential for future unrelated uses; staff clarified the tenant space fronts a pedestrian corridor rather than the main roadway. Council recorded roll-call votes: Holt — No; Berry — Yes; Dew — Yes; Rose — Yes; Anderson — Yes; Wilson — Yes; Elk — Yes. The ordinance was approved.

Background: Planning Commission reviewed the application on April 8 and recommended approval. City staff emphasized hours will be by appointment and that the business will not operate beyond 5:00 a.m. on any night (as stated in staff remarks in the hearing). The Franklin County Health Department governs the sanitary and public-health permits for tattooing and permanent makeup in this case.

Next steps: The applicant may proceed with the approved use at the listed address subject to building and health-department permits and any standard city licensing requirements.