Geneva giving some latitude to home ice rinks
Genevans who want to put a temporary ice rink in their yard this winter will likely be subject to a few rules, but won't need to get building permits.
Aldermen Monday unanimously recommended adding rinks to the list of detached accessory structures permitted in single-family home neighborhoods.
They also recommended the rinks only be allowed Nov. 15 to April 1, and that walls be no higher than four feet.
The rinks must be at least five feet from a lot line and only allowed in street yards or rear yards. A street yard is typically the front yard, but also includes the side yard of a corner lot.
The setback is the same as that for other accessory structures, such as playground equipment and sheds.
The regulations were prompted by complaints last winter by some residents, according to Community Development Director David DeGroot.
Alderman Ron Singer was worried about noise of rambunctious youths disturbing neighbors. He also pointed out the park district sets up rinks every winter that children could use.
"One would think aren't those sufficient enough for these young people to find their way to these locations and engage in their activities in that manner?" Singer asked.
Brian Borkowicz told the aldermen his children do skate at community rinks. "But it is also convenient and very community-based to be able to walk out your back door" to skate and play, Borkowicz said.
Alderman Tara Burghart questioned the length of the season, saying April 1 seemed late, given the first day of spring falls in mid-March. DeGroot said the dates were chosen to make sure ground is not frozen, both for installation and takedown.
Temporary ice rinks have grown in popularity in the United States in recent years. Instructions on how to build them are prevalent on the internet, Home Depot and other companies sell kits, and there are local firms that will do the work for you.
The council will vote on the ordinance Monday.