Proposed Zoning Changes in Evanston Could Affect Developers

Developers in Evanston would face stricter guidelines under proposed zoning code revisions.

The proposed changes include tweaking the prohibitions on multifamily developments in single-family zones, and stricter requirements for affordable housing height bonuses, Evanston Now reported.

The zoning code draft, released on the afternoon of New Year’s Eve, represents the city’s latest attempt to streamline its zoning rules, consolidating nearly 20 chapters of regulations into a more cohesive 51-page document. At the heart of the revisions are efforts to balance housing growth with sustainability goals and neighborhood preservation.

The proposal updates residential zoning regulations, particularly in lower-density areas. Buildings with more than four units wouldn’t be allowed in R1 and R2 single-family zones. These zones would also restrict the combination of multiple lots to create larger, high-density residential buildings.

However, restrictions on multifamily developments of up to four units would be loosened and allowed on more properties in these R1 and R2 zones.

The revised regulations would also allow accessory dwelling units for one- to four-unit buildings.

Developers who provide some affordable units would still receive height bonuses, but the requirements will be stricter. At least 15 percent of a project’s units must be designated affordable to qualify for an increased building height of up to 12 feet under the proposal. Publicly funded projects would be required to meet even higher thresholds.

The proposal also addresses sustainability, with stronger landscaping and environmental standards. New developments or expansions larger than 2,000 square feet would have to submit detailed landscape plans that include native plant species, green infrastructure and tree coverage.

The Land Use Commission scheduled to review the code this month.

Two Chicago developers contributing to Evanston’s residential growth include Celadon Partners and GW Properties.

Celadon, led by managing partner Donald Tang, is redeveloping the historic city-owned Harley Clarke mansion into a 10-key hotel with a restaurant, ice cream parlor and basement speakeasy.