Ancient Art Tattoo Studio, Ltd. v. City of Virginia Beach

In this appeal, we consider whether the circuit court erred in denying mandamus relief to petitioners who sought approval of applications to operate tattoo establishments. Because we conclude that a zoning administrator’s decision on the applications involved the performance of a discretionary duty, we will affirm the circuit court’s judgment.

FACTS AND MATERIAL PROCEEDINGS

In a petition for a writ of mandamus, Ancient Art Tattoo Studio, Ltd. (Ancient Art) challenged the validity of an ordinance of the City of Virginia Beach (the City) that has prohibited the operation of tattoo establishments…