Riverwoods Board approves 90-day open burning permit amid community concerns

The Village of Riverwoods Board of Trustees convened on March 18, 2025, to discuss the implementation of a new open burning ordinance aimed at addressing ongoing community concerns regarding landscape waste burning. The proposed ordinance allows residents to conduct open burning with a permit valid for 90 days, which can be renewed quarterly. The discussions highlighted the need for a balance between residents' desires to manage their landscape waste and the safety and health concerns of the community.

The ordinance stipulates that permits will be issued for various types of burning, including landscape waste and bonfires, with a fee of $50 per quarter. The board emphasized the importance of enforcement, noting that the Fire District and Police Department would play key roles in monitoring compliance. Maps will be provided to residents to clarify permitted burning areas, ensuring that burns occur at least 50 feet away from structures and within designated zones.

Trustee Clayton raised concerns about enforcement, suggesting that many complaints stem from violations of existing codes rather than the wording of the new ordinance. The board acknowledged that while the new regulations may not satisfy all residents, they represent a step toward addressing the issue. Trustee Smith expressed optimism about the ordinance's potential to reduce nuisance smoke affecting neighboring properties.

Community feedback was also a significant aspect of the meeting. Resident Mag Radlowski voiced concerns about the dangers of landscape burning, citing health risks and the potential for uncontrolled fires. She urged the board to consider shortening the permit duration and exploring alternatives for waste disposal. The board recognized the need for ongoing evaluation of the ordinance's effectiveness and the possibility of revisiting it in the future based on community feedback and enforcement outcomes.

In conclusion, the board approved the first reading of the ordinance, with plans for further discussion and potential adjustments based on its implementation and community response. The meeting underscored the village's commitment to balancing residents' needs with public safety and environmental considerations.