After nearly three decades, Paso Robles welcomes its first legal tattoo establishment, Pioneer Tattoo Company. Located on Riverside Avenue, the shop, owned by artist Dylan Richter, officially opened its doors on December 1st, signaling a significant shift for the city. This milestone follows the recent overturning of a long-standing ban on tattoo parlors, a move Richter himself played a crucial role in achieving.
“It feels surreal,” says Richter, reflecting on the culmination of years of effort. “Looking around, it’s hard to believe this is actually happening.” Richter, who transitioned from a career as a graphic designer to a tattoo artist a decade ago, expresses deep passion for his craft. “For me, it’s incredible to help someone bring their vision to life, creating a lasting piece of art that holds personal significance for them,” he explains.
The journey to opening Pioneer Tattoo Company was far from simple. Paso Robles had prohibited tattoo businesses since 1994, citing concerns over health regulations. However, a 2010 Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling established that banning tattoo parlors infringes upon freedom of expression. Despite this ruling, the ban remained in Paso Robles until October 2021, when the City Council finally passed an urgency ordinance to permit these businesses within specific zones, including the Riverside corridor and commercial/light industrial areas. Richter, a Paso Robles resident, was at the forefront of the push to reverse the ban, advocating for the rights of artists and individuals seeking body art. “This has been outlawed for 27 years, and I’ve been fighting for this in the courts for three years. It’s a long time coming,” Richter stated.
For many, the arrival of Pioneer Tattoo Company represents more than just a new business; it’s a victory for self-expression and personal freedom. Jennifer Fanning, a Paso Robles resident and tattoo enthusiast, highlights the personal significance of tattoos. “As a cancer survivor, tattoos have been a powerful way for me to document my journey, my battles, and to honor the memory of my father,” Fanning shared.
Looking ahead, Paso Robles is set to solidify its stance on tattoo businesses. A final ordinance, expected to be adopted at a recent council meeting, outlines specific regulations for future tattoo shops. These include stipulations such as maintaining a minimum distance of 1,000 feet from other tattoo parlors, 500 feet from schools (K-12), and operating hour restrictions between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Richter views the opening of Pioneer Tattoo Company and the city’s evolving regulations as a positive step forward for Paso Robles. “I believe this is a huge leap for the city, and I’m excited to see what the future holds,” he concludes, marking a new chapter for both body art and business in Paso Robles with Pioneer Tattoo Company leading the way.
