Planning commission approves appointment-only tattoo and art studio at 125 Bel Road

The South Russell Village Planning Commission on March 12 voted to approve PC Case No. 2602, allowing applicant Christopher Cle to open an appointment-only private art and tattoo studio at 125 Bel Road, Unit B, a property identified in the record as owned by Don Yurt.

Christopher Cle told the commission the studio would operate by appointment only, focus on small, private sessions and sell artwork on-site. "It's just a private art studio," Cle said, adding that many clients seek tattooing for therapeutic reasons such as covering surgery scars and memorial work. He said the business relies primarily on social media and returning clients rather than walk-in traffic.

Commissioners asked about public-health and facility requirements. Cle said Ohio has no statewide tattoo licensing but that operators maintain CPR and bloodborne-pathogen certifications; the health department will inspect the fit-out before the studio opens. Staff and commissioners also confirmed a separate hand-washing station, disposal of sharps, and routine health-inspection records will be required.

The commission moved and seconded a motion to approve the application; the motion passed on a unanimous voice vote. Commissioners recorded affirmative votes from the mayor, Alisa Gudafra, Greg Broom, Ruth Kavanagh and other sitting members present.

Commissioners welcomed the applicant and noted next steps: finish the studio fit-out, arrange inspections by health and fire prevention staff, and then begin scheduling appointments. "We'll probably set up all the appointment" once inspections and setup are complete, Cle said.

The commission did not add special hours restrictions beyond the village's standard permit and building code processes; staff will verify compliance during inspections. The approval allows the applicant to proceed to required inspections and to open following successful sign-offs.