Fountain Valley, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

Fountain Valley handles tattoo studios through zoning. Table 2-6 in § 21.10.030 lists 'Tattoo establishments' with CUP in the C1 and C2 columns and a dash in the CP, CM and M1 columns. The table legend reads CUP as 'Conditional Use Permit required' and the dash as 'Use not allowed.' The mixed-use table in § 21.15.030 also prints a dash for tattoo establishments, so the MU-1 and MU-2 districts are closed to them too.

Section 21.90.020 defines the use as premises used for the business of marking or coloring the skin with tattoos, together with the furnishings, equipment, instruments, dyes, inks and other facilities kept there for that purpose. The definition excludes establishments offering semipermanent makeup, and Table 2-6 lists semi-permanent makeup as a permitted use (P) in the CP, C1 and C2 districts, so that work does not need a CUP there.

A CUP is required by § 21.36.020 for any use the tables mark CUP. Under § 21.36.030 the commission approves, approves with conditions or disapproves the application. Section 21.36.050 lists seven findings, including that the design, location, shape, size and operating characteristics of the use are compatible with existing and future land uses in the vicinity, that the site is physically suitable, and that the applicant has agreed on the record to abide by every condition. Parking for tattoo studios is counted with other personal services in § 21.22.040 at 1 space for each 250 sq. ft. of gross floor area.