Shabbona board adopts directional-boring permit ordinance, sets fees and noncompliance fines

Trustees discussed and approved a new Chapter 12 ordinance to govern directional-boring permits and utility permits. The ordinance includes a bonding requirement intended to cover potential construction damage, described in discussion as "1.5 per times the estimated amount of the construction"; trustees cited a prior $400,000 estimated project that would imply a $600,000 bond under that formula.

The board approved the fee schedule accompanying the ordinance: a $200 utility-permit application fee, a $200 directional-boring application fee and a $250-per-day fine for failure to achieve permanent compliance. Trustees said the ordinance aims to reduce repeated disruptions from utility contractors and ensure there are funds available to repair damage without protracted insurance disputes.

The motion passed by roll call; trustees said the ordinance would give the village clearer authority to enforce standards and collect funds when contractors fail to restore right-of-way surfaces properly.

Why it matters: The ordinance affects how utilities perform subsurface work in village right-of-way and creates a bonding mechanism to protect the village’s infrastructure and budget.

What’s next: The ordinance is adopted and the village will implement the fee schedule; staff will work with contractors to communicate new permit requirements.