Council approves specific-use permit for appointment-only tattoo studio on Douglas Road

The Nacogdoches City Council on May 21 unanimously approved a specific-use permit for a tattoo and piercing studio planned for 1023 Douglas Road in the East–West Commercial Corridor.

Interim city planner Juan presented the request for an approximately 800-square-foot hand-poke tattoo studio in a B2 zoned area; staff reported 11 notices sent to neighbors with no written responses and that the Planning and Zoning Commission had unanimously recommended approval with conditions, including hours of operation. Applicant Caitlyn Stavinsky told the council she has about three years’ experience, will operate by appointment only and will apply to the Texas Department of State Health Services for required licensure once the city permit is approved.

A member of the public, Katha Williams, asked how the business would prevent minors from being tattooed and what medical safeguards would be in place. Stavinsky and staff said Texas law prohibits tattooing minors under 18 and that the applicant will verify identification (driver’s license or passport), keep records on file, operate by appointment only and contact emergency services if necessary. The applicant said she will require valid ID and retain records for verification.

After public comment and a brief discussion, the council moved and unanimously approved the permit with the PNZ-listed conditions. The approval is for the city land-use permit; state health licensing remains a prerequisite for operations.