West Sacramento, CA Business Licensing & Operations: Tattoo & Body Modification (2026)
Key Facts
- Permitted zones
- CBD, C, MU-NC, MU-C, WF
- Not permitted
- Commercial-Highway (CH) zone
- Hours
- Limited to 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Extended hours
- Require a Use Permit
Summary
The City of West Sacramento, Yolo County zones tattoo and body-modification parlors as a permitted personal-service use in CBD, C, MU-NC, MU-C, and Waterfront zones, but not Commercial-Highway, and caps hours of operation at 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Personal service establishments shall be located, developed, and operated in compliance with the following standards:
A. Hours of Operation. Hours of operation shall be limited to 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. unless otherwise specified in a Use Permit.
B. Massage Establishments. Massage establishments shall comply with Chapter 5.12, Massage Parlors, of the Municipal Code. Noncompliant establishments which offer massage in exchange for compensation, including sole proprietorships, shall be prohibited. Massage establishments shall comply with the following standards:
1. No exterior window shall be tinted, covered, or obstructed such that visibility into the business is reduced or eliminated. (Ord. 19-1 § 3)
Full Breakdown
The Chapter 17.50 use classification of the City of West Sacramento, Yolo County defines a tattoo or body modification parlor as an establishment whose principal activity is permanently coloring skin with needles or other instruments, or piercing the body to insert jewelry. Table 17.09.020 lists it as a permitted 'Personal Services' use in the CBD, C, MU-NC, MU-C, and Waterfront zones, but not the Commercial-Highway zone, and cross-references Section 17.30.170, which limits personal service establishments -- including tattoo and body modification parlors -- to hours of operation between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. unless a Use Permit specifies otherwise.
Violations & Fines
Operating outside the 6 a.m.-10 p.m. window without a Use Permit, or opening in the Commercial-Highway zone where the use isn't listed, violates Title 17; the city can issue a notice of violation and pursue zoning enforcement under Chapter 17.46.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hours can a tattoo parlor operate in West Sacramento?
Can a tattoo shop open in West Sacramento's Commercial-Highway zone?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in West Sacramento
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