Lake Bluff zoning panel approves 3.5-foot front-yard setback variance for rear addition with tree-protection conditions

The Lake Bluff Plan Commission/ Zoning Board on a recorded voice vote approved a request to allow a two-story rear addition to encroach 3.5 feet into the front-yard setback, reducing the required 30-foot setback to 26.55 feet so the homeowners can enlarge a master suite and add a second-floor learning center.

The panel conditioned approval on protecting an existing large tree in the courtyard: the applicant agreed to consult an arborist, use root-pruning and other arboricultural measures, and, if necessary, slide or otherwise alter the addition and return for review. The approval also requires that if the proposed deck remains at the larger size it is contingent on a private-covenant amendment; if the applicant instead reduces the deck the updated plans must be submitted to and approved by the village administrator. Any increase in the requested encroachment beyond what was approved will require the applicant to return to the commission for new relief.

Why it matters:…