Kokomo board approves home-based therapeutic massage practice at 1101 W. Monroe

Teresa Rudd, who gave her address as 1101 West Monroe Street, told the Kokomo Board of Zoning Appeals on Feb. 3 that she seeks a special exception under section 3.11 to operate a therapeutic massage business as a home-occupation Type 2.

Rudd said the business would involve no exterior changes to the residence and would be managed to avoid neighborhood impacts: "Clients will be seen 1 at a time and park either in the potential driveway or on the street," she told the board, adding the practice would adhere to Indiana state regulations governing massage therapy.

Staff presented findings recommending approval, noting the petitioner is licensed, the use is low-traffic and the existing buildings meet front and side setback requirements. Staff also recorded that the house was constructed in 1890 (garage added 1982) and described the property as legally nonconforming but compatible with the Kokomo comprehensive plan.

Board members asked about hours of operation; Rudd said appointments would begin as early as 8 a.m. and end by about 7 p.m., and that she schedules around homeschooling her children. After questions, the chair called a voice vote; ayes were recorded and the motion to approve the special exception was declared approved.

The approval covers only the zoning special exception under section 3.11 and does not waive applicable licensing or permitting requirements from other regulatory bodies. Any future business-compliance items remain subject to those agencies' rules.