MAYVILLE - The county's sanitary codes regarding tattoos and body piercings were amended Thursday during a county Board of Health meeting.
The amendments were generally considered a "cleanup effort" of the county's health codes, said Mark Stow, director of environmental health services.
The changes include clearing up language regarding those sanctioned to perform tattoos and body piercings and shops approved for the activity.
Stow said a section of the sanitary code was added to prohibit an artist from performing their duties while under the influence.
"I think in the past we specified a person getting a tattoo shouldn't be under the influence," he said. "We thought it went without saying the artist shouldn't be, either. We thought we had to nail that down as well."
Other amendments regarding tattoos and piercings include: age requirements and consent must be given before a tattoo or body piercing can be received; any applicant denied a certification will receive written notification; records of work must be kept on premises at all times, and records must be kept for three years.
Also announced were changes to definitions and general provisions in the county's sanitary code, which were made by Kristen Wright, new county assistant attorney.
"She's reviewing our stuff with fresh eyes," said Christine Schuyler, county commissioner of human services.
The health board also welcomed legislator Mark Tarbrake, R-Ellicott, as its newest member during its meeting Thursday.
The next county Board of Heath meeting will take place July 19 at 6 p.m. at the Hall R. Clothier building in Mayville.