Home Business Causing Controversy Among Tulsa Neighbors

A nail salon operating out of a home is causing an uproar in one midtown neighborhood. Neighbors want to kick the business out, but the owner isn't going anywhere.

Thanh Nguyen said she moved her business into her home because she simply couldn't afford to pay the rent at her store front anymore.

She opened up quietly, but now has the attention of the entire neighborhood.

Even though the neon open sign is turned off, Nguyen is open for business, and, according to INCOG, there's not much neighbors can do about it.

The single story house near 41st and Peoria looks like any other house on the block with the exception of the “Mong Tay Nails and Spa,” sign above the garage and the “Open” sign in the window.

“I'm very surprised that some people are complaining about my business here," Nguyen said.

Her home, and now place of business, falls within the Bolewood Acres Neighborhood.

“There are areas for businesses, so keep it separate. And I'm concerned with a business creep, up 41st street," said neighbor Veronica Donnelly.

Nguyen said she's doing everything legal; starting months ago when she filed a special exception with the city's board of adjustment to move her business into her home.

It was approved, as long as she met special conditions including business signs under two square feet and only offered one service - two conditions she failed to meet.

“We're open. Two for one, massage, nails. I mean come on," Donnelly said.

Nguyen said, "I was not aware about that, but when the city of Tulsa inspector told me, I took it in."

The sign advertising nails, facials, massage and waxing now sits by her front door.

City inspectors also let her know, she's only allowed to offer one service, nails,

"People now think I'm doing something wrong in here," Nguyen said.

She said concerned neighbors can come in and talk to her.

Neighbors have taken their issue to city councilors but Susan Miller with INCOG said there's nothing neighbors can do.

"It's not possible. The city council doesn't have the authority to overturn a decision by the city board of adjustment," she said.

Nguyen plans to remain open for business and, hopefully, smooth things over with neighbors.