Pismo Beach, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)

Article II of Chapter 5.11 covers tattoo establishments, and § 5.11.150 sets the conditions for anyone who tattoos, applies permanent makeup, brands or pierces in the City of Pismo Beach. A new shop cannot be established or operated within one thousand (1,000) feet of any like establishment. The distance runs between the closest points on the boundaries of the two parcels, and the community development director or designee makes the determination. The same 1,000 foot separation is printed again in the proximity provisions of both zoning codes under Title 17 (§ 17.105.190 in the 1983 Zoning Ordinance and § 17.38.135 in the 1998 Zoning Code).

Hours are limited to 7:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. Service or consumption of alcohol, cannabis-based substances or other controlled substances is not permitted inside, and smoking is barred indoors under section 6404.5 of the California State Labor Code as the city text cites it. Operators must post the sign "No tattoo service will be provided for anyone under the age of 18" at or next to the front entrance, keep specified anatomical areas out of the publicly accessible areas and out of view from the public right-of-way, prevent loitering and loud noises during and after business hours, remove exterior graffiti within twenty-four (24) hours, and go without exterior security bars or roll-up doors on windows and pedestrian entrances.

Health standards are written into the section. Operators must follow California and San Luis Obispo County health regulations, including the state Safe Body Art Act, provide a sink outside any public restroom with hot and cold running water, use only FDA-approved inks made for tattoo procedures, and use single-use gloves that are changed when damaged or after contact with a third person. Lighting must equal twenty (20) foot-candles at least three (3) feet above the floor, with at least one hundred (100) foot-candles where procedures are performed.

Under § 5.11.160, city and county officials, including law enforcement, code enforcement, fire officials, the health officer and the director of community development, have the right to enter during regular business hours to inspect. The police, community development and fire departments can charge a nonrefundable inspection fee set by city council resolution.