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Commission backs zoning text change to allow screened outdoor storage in Allen District
Summary
The PCZBA recommended allowing outdoor storage behind buildings in the Allen District north of Route 176 and east of U.S. 41, subject to Architectural Board of Review approval, opaque screening and a prohibition on hazardous materials.
The Village of Lake Bluff Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals voted to recommend proceeding with a zoning text amendment to allow outdoor storage in a portion of the Allen District, north of Illinois Route 176 and east of U.S. Route 41, provided storage is behind buildings, screened and limited to nonhazardous materials.
The change responds to existing outdoor storage observed near 35 North Skokie Highway and aims to provide a regulatory path for businesses that already use adjacent lots for palletized hard goods and similar items.
David Douglas, tenant at 35 North Skokie Highway, told the commission he rents adjacent outdoor space for landscape masonry materials and said the area has been used for similar storage “since at least 02/2005.” He said the materials are “hard goods, pallets of stone” and that any chemicals are stored inside the building.
Commission members discussed screening and enforcement. Member Russell urged that screening be effectively opaque and recommended the Architectural Board of Review (ABR) review fence or wall design; commissioners agreed screening should not be chain-link with large openings. The motion adopted by the commission included language that outdoor storage areas must be maintained in a clean, sanitary and safe condition and added an explicit prohibition on hazardous materials.
The commission’s recommendation also gives the ABR authority to review and set final fencing or screening design. The vote was unanimous: Members Fisher, Miller, Russell, Danley and Chair Peters voted to proceed, and the motion passed.
Next steps: staff will forward the proposed text amendment and suggested ABR review process to the Village Board for consideration. If the board approves, individual properties will still require ABR approval on fencing and compliance with the no-hazardous-materials condition before outdoor storage may commence under the amended code.
