MANSFIELD -- Mansfield's first tattoo parlor is expected to open downtown in May.

Tiki Tattoo has applied for a body art establishment and body practitioner permit for 288 North Main St.

Owner Donald Howe is applying for the permit under regulations approved by the board of health adopted in the spring of 2001, when the state opened the doors to tattoo parlors.

Only a few tattoo parlors are in the Attleboro area, including one each in Attleboro and North Attleboro. There are several in Taunton, Pawtucket and Providence.