Riverwoods zoning panel targets window clutter, flashing signs in Colonial Court and Shops

Riverwoods Zoning Board of Appeals members on Aug. 14 reviewed a staff survey showing widespread violations of the village sign code at two shopping centers and directed staff to draft recommendations for new, enforceable standards.

The meeting centered on a packet and photo survey presented by Director Steve Witt, who told the commission that most storefronts in Colonial Court and the Shops exceed permitted sign area and that window signage is ‘‘out of control.’’ He said the survey found area nonconformities ranging from about 13% to as high as 168% over the permitted area, several instances of lettering height outside the allowed range, and numerous window signs that exceed the village’s limit of 2 square feet. ‘‘Our code specifically says 2 square feet is all you get,’’ Witt said, reading the relevant language from section 12-4-1 and related text in the packet.

Why it matters: commissioners said the cluttered windows and flashing or neon signs make the centers look ‘‘junky,’’ reduce visibility into businesses, and create safety concerns for first responders. Several members argued that visible noncompliance discourages better tenants and perpetuates further violations by example.

Commission discussion and recommendations

Members pressed staff for a practical enforcement approach rather than immediate heavy-handed action. Betty…