South Carolina enforces strict tattoo regulations, including a ban on tattooing above the neck. This law affects licensed tattoo artists such as Sushil Patel, owner of Born Again Tattoo. Patel reports that about one in ten clients requests a tattoo above the neck, but these requests are declined due to the current law.
The state also has zoning requirements for tattoo shops. These businesses must be at least 1,000 feet from churches, schools, or playgrounds.
In comparison, bars and strip clubs are required to be 500 feet away from these locations. Tattoo shops are also not allowed to sell physical products, such as branded merchandise or aftercare items…