LA Fire Department Is Rethinking Its Tattoo Policy. And It Wants Your Help

The Los Angeles Fire Department is seeking public input on whether it should change its tattoo policy.

For more than 15 years, the LAFD has required firefighters to cover their tattoos with a bandage, skin patch, or long sleeve shirt because they deemed them to be unprofessional — to the degree that new recruits with tattoos that can't be covered up aren't hired.

The policy currently states:

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But firefighters have noted several negative effects from the policy, such as operational and response challenges, feeling a lack of acceptance and inclusion, and it's just plain too hot to cover up while doing their job.

Now, with tattoos becoming more acceptable and commonplace, the department is rethinking its stance, particularly following changes set out by the military and other local agencies.

Beginning in March, the Air Force and Space Force have allowed their members one tattoo on each hand and one tattoo on the back of the neck. The inscriptions cannot exceed one inch or portray obscene, racist or violent symbols. Previously, the services allowed only ring tattoos limited to a single band. The changes came amidst steadily decreasing recruitment.

The 8-question survey from the LAFD is open to the general public until Oct. 6, with the aim to understand social attitude toward firefighters wearing tattoos.

"We will then tabulate the responses and collect the data for consideration," said LAFD Captain Erik Scott.