The planning and zoning commission is proposing allowing a total of two tattoo shops to operate in the downtown zoning district. City documents show that, if approved, the change would allow two shops to operate by right, though more could be allowed in the area by applying for a specific-use permit.
Some commissioners stated they did not want to put a hard cap on the number of tattoo shops in case demand for the businesses was to increase in the future.
City planning staff first proposed allowing three tattoo shops to operate downtown without specific-use permits, but after discussion by the commission during its April 18 meeting, the proposal was changed to two.
After the public hearing is held, the proposed changes will then need to be approved by City Council.
A city zoning ordinance dating back to 2001 states that tattoo shops in Plano are only allowed as an addition to a personal service shop, such as a beauty or piercing studio. The city defines tattooing as “the practice of producing an indelible mark or figure on the human body by scarring or inserting pigment under the skin using needles, scalpels or other equipment.”
The planning and zoning commission voted unanimously during its March 21 meeting to hold the public hearing. Commissioners indicated during the meeting that they were in favor of allowing solo tattoo shops to open in the downtown area with certain regulations. There are no tattoo shops operating in downtown Plano.
The entire discussion from the April 18 meeting can be seen here.
