St. Joseph adopts definitions for tattoo/body‑art and beauty salons, allows tattoo businesses downtown

The St. Joseph Planning Commission voted Jan. 12 to adopt zoning language that defines "tattoo/body art" and "beauty salon" and allows tattoo/body‑art businesses in the B1 central business (downtown) district.

Planning staff said the ordinance adds a definition for a tattoo/body‑art use as "a licensed business that provides permanent tattoos and makeup to clients using needles and ink" and defines a beauty salon as a business providing professional cosmetic treatments such as hairdressing and manicures. Staff told commissioners the definitions follow common practice in comparable cities and that state licensing and regulations still apply.

During the required public hearing Kevin Clusner of 29645 95th Avenue said he had no problem with tattoo or body‑art studios but urged attention to downtown aesthetics so new businesses fit the character of the downtown. "I have no problem with a tattoo or body art business or studio opening up. I just would hope that we have some type of sense of aesthetics if it's going to be downtown," Clusner said.

Commissioners then voted by voice to approve ordinance PC2026‑00004 and to approve the summary publication (PC2026‑00005). Staff noted legal review had addressed elements such as piercing and reminded the commission that any operator also must comply with state licensing requirements.

The ordinance specifies where the use is allowed (the downtown B1 district) and provides local definitions; further operational or aesthetic standards would be enforced through existing local ordinances and any required permits.