North Barrington Zoning Code Update
Purpose of the Update
The Village Residents are encouraged to review the draft Zoning Code here and provide written comment to info@northbarrington.org. A public hearing of the Plan Commission is anticipated in the coming months to receive public comment on the proposed updates. Date of the hearing will be publicized when known. Final approval by the Village Board is expected late winter or early spring 2027. A PowerPoint summarizing the proposed changes can be viewed here.
Summary
The Village of North Barrington is undertaking a comprehensive update and modernization of its Zoning Code. The proposed revisions are intended to improve organization, clarity, consistency, and ease of use while preserving the community's character and development goals. The draft code reorganizes regulations into a modern, user-friendly format with clear definitions, measurement standards, graphics, and streamlined procedures.
Key Proposed Updates
Modernized Code Organization
The updated code is organized into clearly defined chapters covering zoning districts, uses, development standards, parking, landscaping, signs, administration, and enforcement. This structure is designed to make the regulations easier for residents, property owners, businesses, and staff to understand and apply.
Updated Land Use Regulations
The draft introduces a modern use matrix that identifies whether specific uses are permitted, require special approval, or are prohibited within each zoning district. Uses are grouped into broad categories with individual definitions and standards. Proposed prohibited uses include short-term rentals, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and data centers.
Revised Zoning Districts
The code updates standards for:
- Residential districts
- Business districts
- Open Space and Recreation districts
- Golf Course districts
- Equestrian Estate districts
Enhanced Development Standards
New and updated regulations address:
- Exterior lighting and light pollution controls
- Animal keeping standards on larger residential properties
- Fence and wall regulations
- Refuse and recycling enclosure requirements
- Outdoor storage limitations
- Accessory structure regulations
- Standards for features such as pools, sports courts, solar panels, mechanical equipment, flagpoles, and chicken coops
Parking and Access Requirements
The draft provides comprehensive regulations for:
- Parking lot design and layout
- Required parking spaces
- Commercial vehicle storage
- Recreational vehicle storage
- Parking facility location and access standards
New Landscaping Requirements
The proposed code strengthens landscaping standards by requiring:
- Landscape plans for most non-residential development
- Native or naturalized plant species
- Tree diversity requirements
- Parking lot landscaping
- Buffer yards between different land uses
- Installation and maintenance standards
Updated Sign Regulations
The sign chapter has been reorganized and updated to improve clarity and maintain content-neutral regulations. The code identifies exempt signs that do not require permits and establishes standards for permitted signs such as wall signs, ground signs, awnings, canopies, and drive-through signage.
Improved Administrative Procedures
The draft clarifies the roles of the Village Board, Plan Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Building and Zoning Officer. It also updates procedures for:
- Zoning amendments
- Special uses
- Variances
- Planned Unit Developments
- Site plan review
- Sign permits
- Appeals and interpretations
Nonconforming Properties
The updated code includes comprehensive standards for existing nonconforming uses, structures, lots, site elements, and signs. It also provides additional flexibility for nonconforming single-family and two-family homes while establishing clear standards for rebuilding and expansion.