LEWISTON — Tattoo parlors could be allowed in more areas of the city under a possible zoning change.

Lewiston zoning rules currently allow tattoo parlors in the Community Business District, which includes parts of Lisbon, Main and Sabattus streets.

City Planner David Hediger said the current rules treat tattoo parlors like adult book stores or bars.

“But it seems everybody has a tattoo these days,” Hediger said. “So it’s questionable that we should regulate to the same standard we regulate adult businesses — like adult book stores or places that sell marital aids.”

The proposed changes would allow the parlors in Lewiston’s Highway Business District. That would open up lots along most of the city’s bigger roads.

The proposal is being brought forward by James J. Bernard, who operates the Professional Piercers of Maine at 1215 Lisbon St. Body piercers are regulated as service providers, not adult businesses. That means they can be allowed in more districts of the city.

“He likes to be able to offer tattoos and he can’t at his store,” Hediger said.

The proposal would create a new category in between adult businesses and services like hair salons for tattoo parlors. Would-be operators would need approval from the city’s Board of Appeals to open, according to the new proposal.

“Tattoo establishments are not really a use that creates adverse impacts,” Hediger said. “They don’t create a ton of traffic or a ton of noise. There are many uses that are allowed by right in both of those zones and they are more noxious. So I believe this is a reasonable request.”

The Planning Board recommended the change at the Aug. 27 meeting, and city councilors approved it on first reading at the Sept. 3.

The change comes back to the City Council for a final vote at the Sept. 17 meeting.

“We told the applicants we would work with them if they wanted to bring it through,” Hediger said. “It’s not a proposal that’s a priority for staff, but it is a reasonable change.”

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