LAPD Officer Uniform Policies: A Look at Tattoo Coverage and Summer Dress Codes

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has long had specific policies regarding officer appearance, particularly in relation to visible tattoos. As of the latest updates, these policies can vary, and there have been ongoing discussions about leniency during summer months.

The Current Tattoo Policy

Traditionally, the LAPD has required officers to cover tattoos while in uniform. This means that in hot weather, officers may wear long sleeves to ensure tattoos remain covered. However, this requirement can be challenged during extreme heat conditions, leading to various practices among supervisors and command staff.

Officer visibility of tattoos is monitored through specific regulations. For large, visible tattoos, officers are required to cover them. This can be achieved through long sleeves, bandages, or fabric sleeves. The policy is more strictly enforced for prominent tattoos, but for smaller tattoos on the fingers or hands, there is less scrutiny.

Changes in Policy and Practices

While the official policy remains that tattoos be covered, in practice, some supervisors and command staff show more leniency. This has led to a shift where officers wearing short sleeves is more common, especially during summer months when temperatures can reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

One notable example is the recent shift from the strict policies of decades ago. A novel by former police officer Joseph Wambaugh, set in the early 1960s, discussed the then-chief, Bill Parker, who disallowed short sleeves due to the desire to avoid showing tattoos. This policy has evolved significantly over the years, with many current LAPD officers opting to wear short sleeves in warm weather.

Current Trends and Future Outlook

As of August 2023, the LAPD continues to monitor and adjust its policies to balance the needs of officers with community standards. Officially, the requirement to cover tattoos remains, but in practical application, there is a growing acceptance of short sleeves during summer months. For the most up-to-date information, officers and interested parties should refer to LAPD announcements and local news sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are officers still required to cover tattoos in hot weather?

While the policy mandates the coverage of tattoos, many supervisors now allow officers to wear short sleeves during extreme heat. This practical approach balances officer comfort with the appearance policy.

What are the specific procedures for covering tattoos?

Officers can cover large visible tattoos with long sleeves, bandages, or fabric sleeves. Smaller tattoos on the fingers or hands are generally not as strictly monitored.

Has there been any recent change in LAPD uniform policies?

Rather than significant changes, there has been a trend towards allowing more flexibility, especially during the warmer months, in relation to tattoo coverage. This reflects a broader conversation about officer comfort and community expectations.