Riverside asks Planning & Zoning to study zoning classifications and standards for utilities

The Village Board of Riverside on May 21 approved a resolution directing the Planning & Zoning Commission to evaluate and recommend zoning classifications and standards for utilities whose primary use is the property.

Director Siren said the review will focus on utilities that are the primary land use (for example, substations), rather than incidental utility infrastructure that serves an existing use. The commission will assess appropriate zoning districts, setbacks, screening and standards for emerging uses such as data centers and report recommendations back to the board before amendments are considered at public hearings.

Why it matters: The review aims to ensure utility facilities are located in appropriate districts with standards that address visual impacts, safety and compatibility with neighborhood uses.

Next steps: The Planning & Zoning Commission will discuss the issue over the summer and staff will return recommendations to the Village Board for consideration.