Commission recommends conditional use for tobacco shop at 1522 N. Elmhurst

The Mount Prospect Planning & Zoning Commission voted to recommend that the Village Board approve a conditional use to reopen a tobacco retail shop at 1522 North Elmhurst Road.

Staff presented case PZ1225 and said the 900‑square‑foot tenant space formerly housed a smoke shop that closed in August 2024 after the business license was revoked because of tobacco sales to minors. The petitioner, who identified herself as Rabia Mas of Masmos LLC, told commissioners this would be her first retail location though she said her family operates other smoke shops and that she will oversee daily operations.

Staff recommended approval with conditions including prohibition of on‑site consumption, a valid Mount Prospect business license, limits on exterior and window signage (only a small door sign listing business name, hours and legal postings), restrictions on decorative/promotional lighting, prohibition of sales of branded or novelty items, and a requirement that a new conditional‑use approval be sought for changes in ownership or entity. Staff also noted the conditional use can be revoked if the village receives substantiated complaints about noncompliance with conditions or violations of law.

Commissioners asked about prior litter complaints associated with the former tenant. The petitioner said she would monitor the parking area and comply with law; staff and commissioners clarified that property‑level waste and dumpster arrangements are typically the responsibility of the property owner and that substantiated complaints related to the conditions could lead to revocation.

A commissioner moved and a second was offered; the commission voted to forward a positive recommendation to the Village Board. The staff report indicates the village board will consider the case on March 17.

The case record includes staff’s recommended conditions; final approval and any additional or modified conditions will be set by the Village Board.