Des Plaines easing sign rules for cannabis stores
Des Plaines officials are taking steps to ease restrictions on signs advertising cannabis-related businesses.
The city council on Monday tentatively voted to delete sign regulations specifically written for dispensaries and other businesses in that industry. If the council formally approves the changes at a future meeting as planned, such businesses instead would be bound by the less-stringent rules that apply to other commercial operations in town.
“This text amendment would intend to treat cannabis dispensaries just like any other business, in regards to signage size, quantity (and) locations,” Community and Economic Development Director Jeff Rogers said before Monday’s vote.
The current, stricter restrictions aren’t needed because Illinois officials have clarified statewide rules for cannabis businesses’ signs and advertising, Rogers said. The changes being considered in Des Plaines would align with the state’s rules, he said.
Under state law, signs for dispensaries cannot feature images designed or likely to appeal to minors, including cartoons, toys, animals, or children. Likewise, dispensary signs can’t feature images, characters or phrases designed to encourage consumption by minors. Using the word “cannabis” is OK with state lawmakers -- but until now it hasn’t been allowed in Des Plaines.
Having local sign rules for dispensaries that differ from rules for other types of businesses has led to mistakes, Des Plaines officials said. For example, if the rules aren’t amended, Rogers said, pole and facade signs at the city’s lone dispensary — Supergood, which opened in April at 660 N. Wolf Road — would have to be modified or removed.
Likewise, a window sign at Here & Now, a dispensary expected to open at 1587 Lee St. within a few weeks, would need to be removed, a city spokesperson confirmed Tuesday.
The council voted 6-1 in favor of easing the sign rules. Seventh Ward Alderman Patsy Smith voted against the change, while 3rd Ward Alderman Sean Oskerka was absent.
A final vote could happen as soon as the council’s next meeting, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 6 at city hall, 1420 Miner St. It’ll be open to the public and also livestreamed at desplainesil.gov.