Elmhurst Tattoo Shop Restrictions On Table

ELMHURST, IL – Proposed updates to Elmhurst's zoning ordinance would permit tattoo shops in commercial districts, but the city is considering restrictions.

Tattoo establishments are not mentioned in the current code.

In a City Council committee meeting late last year, residents attending suggested limiting the square footage or number of chairs in such businesses. They also proposed such shops be by appointment only.

Such restrictions would apply to tattoo studios in commercial districts that contain larger retailers.

According to a city memo in November, the proposed restrictions are considerations in the discussions of the Development, Planning and Zoning Committee.

In an emailed comment to the city this week, Elmhurst resident Emily Quinn said she had ideas to "allay your fears of bringing in a typically known tattoo parlor."

She suggested restrictions such as limiting a shop's square footage (possibly 400), mandating appointments only and requiring they offer medical tattooing.

"I would like to reiterate the reason for this request is for the safety and privacy of both the operator and the client, into a well populated and well lit commercial zone," Quinn said.

By including such restrictions, she said, the city could prevent large standard tattoo shops in larger retail districts. Shops smaller than 400 square feet are rare, she said.

"This would have the benefit of limiting body art establishments in Elmhurst," Quinn said.

At 7 p.m. Monday, the Development, Planning and Zoning Committee plans to discuss the issue at City Hall.