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Are Tattoo Shops Open in California November 2020? What You Need to Know

Apr 11, 2025

Are Tattoo Shops Open in California November 2020? What You Need to Know

1. Status of Tattoo Shops in California: November 2020

In November 2020, tattoo shops in California were subject to various regulations due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The state had experienced several waves of restrictions and reopenings, and as of late 2020, the status of tattoo shops varied depending on the county and the current phase of the pandemic. At that time, many areas were still operating under limited capacity, while others had imposed temporary closures to curb the spread of the virus.

For tattoo enthusiasts looking to get inked, this meant checking local ordinances and regulations before booking an appointment. While some counties allowed tattoo shops to remain open with specific safety protocols in place, others had mandated temporary shutdowns to prevent further outbreaks. In areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, tattoo shops were allowed to open under strict guidelines, while in some rural areas, tattoo businesses could operate with fewer restrictions.

2. How COVID-19 Affected Tattoo Shops in California

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on businesses across the United States, and tattoo shops in California were no exception. In March 2020, tattoo shops were among the many businesses that were forced to close to prevent the spread of the virus. The closure lasted for several months, and tattoo artists, who rely on in-person appointments, were hit hard financially.

By the time November 2020 rolled around, California's reopening plans had allowed some tattoo shops to return to business, but with new health and safety measures in place. These measures included mandatory face coverings for both clients and artists, regular sanitation of equipment and surfaces, and reduced appointments to ensure proper distancing. For many tattoo lovers, this meant waiting longer for an appointment or adhering to specific guidelines during their visit.

3. Tattoo Regulations in California: What You Need to Know

California has always had some of the strictest regulations for tattoo shops, and these rules became even more important during the pandemic. Tattoo artists were required to follow local and state health guidelines to ensure their shops were compliant with safety protocols. These regulations included the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), limiting the number of people inside the shop at any given time, and enforcing social distancing where possible.

In addition to COVID-19 safety measures, California law requires that tattoo shops maintain a clean and sterile environment. Artists must also be licensed by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and shops are regularly inspected to ensure they meet sanitary standards. All these regulations aim to protect both clients and tattoo artists, ensuring that the process is as safe and hygienic as possible.

4. Safety Precautions for Getting a Tattoo in November 2020

If you were considering getting a tattoo in California in November 2020, it was essential to be aware of the additional safety precautions that were in place due to the pandemic. Here's a breakdown of the safety measures that tattoo shops implemented during this time:

  • Face Masks: Both clients and tattoo artists were required to wear face masks at all times. This helped minimize the risk of transmitting the virus while allowing for a safe environment during the tattooing process.
  • Social Distancing: Most shops limited the number of people allowed inside at any given time to ensure social distancing. Some tattoo shops even implemented staggered appointment times to avoid crowding.
  • Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitization: Tattoo shops followed enhanced cleaning protocols, sanitizing all equipment, chairs, and workstations between clients. Artists were required to sanitize their hands and tools frequently.
  • Health Screenings: Some shops performed health screenings before clients were allowed to enter, including asking about recent travel, potential exposure to COVID-19, and any symptoms of illness.

These precautions were put in place to keep both clients and artists safe, and while they may have made the process slightly more complicated, they were necessary to continue operating during the pandemic.

5. My Experience Getting a Tattoo in California During November 2020

During November 2020, I had the opportunity to get a tattoo in California, and I wanted to share my experience to help others navigate the process. I had been eagerly waiting for the shop to reopen after the previous lockdowns, and when they did, I quickly booked an appointment. Upon arriving at the tattoo shop, I noticed the extra precautions being taken. The shop was operating at a limited capacity, and I was asked to wait outside until my artist was ready.

Once inside, I felt comfortable knowing that both the artist and the staff were taking the necessary steps to ensure safety. The artist wore gloves, a mask, and frequently sanitized their hands and tools. The process felt just as smooth as any other tattoo session I had before, with the added reassurance that the shop was following all the necessary health protocols. It was a strange experience, but ultimately, it was worth it for me to get the tattoo I had been planning for months.

6. When Will Tattoo Shops Fully Reopen in California?

While tattoo shops in California slowly began to reopen in 2020, many people were wondering when things would return to normal. As of November 2020, the situation was still fluid, and restrictions were being adjusted based on local and state COVID-19 rates. However, California's vaccination rollout and declining case rates in some areas led to an eventual loosening of restrictions for businesses, including tattoo shops.

If you were looking to get a tattoo in California, the outlook for 2021 seemed much more optimistic, with many shops preparing for a more regular schedule. However, it was important to stay up-to-date on local regulations, as they could change based on the public health situation.

For anyone still looking to get tattooed in California, it’s best to check with your local shop directly for the latest information regarding their operations and any specific requirements they have in place.