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TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: Deborah Lang, Assistant Corporation Counsel III
Jennifer Stallings, City Clerk
DATE: March 31, 2026
SUBJECT:
An Ordinance amending Chapter 6 Alcoholic Liquor, Sec. 6-13 Allowed Areas of the Code of Ordinances.
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this proposed amendment is to clarify and make this section of the liquor code more user friendly. The current section is confusing and not ordered in a way that is easy for the typical user to follow or interpret. Additionally, the proposed changes remove outdated language and unnecessary sections.
BACKGROUND:
While reviewing this section for potential codification of temporary outdoor seating, it was determined that updates were needed to improve the usability of this section. These changes are being presented concurrently with the proposed addition of temporary outdoor seating to the code of ordinances.
DISCUSSION:
Sec. 6-13 of the liquor code has been difficult to interpret and, therefore, difficult to explain and help potential businesses or existing businesses to follow. This section includes technical specifications for permanent outdoor seating that ultimately involves the review and approval of Building & Permits and is, therefore, discussed in many DST meetings. The proposed amendments should improve staff's ability to effectively communicate the requirements for permanent outdoor seating and easier assist businesses in planning their outdoor areas and complying with the requirements of the City.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
The proposed changes to Chapter 6 will have a positive impact on the current and future business community in Aurora.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed amendments.
cc: Rules, Administration and Procedures Committee
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
title
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 6 "Alcoholic Liquor", Sec. 6-13 "Allowed Areas" of the Code of Ordinances.
body
WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the current Sec. 6-13 of the code of ordinances required updating and organizing; and
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments will help staff and businesses to understand the requirements for permanent outdoor seating.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows:
Section One: That Chapter 6 of the City of Aurora Code of Ordinances shall be and hereby is amended as set forth in Exhibit A.
Section Two: That this ordinance shall be in full force and effect, and shall be controlling, upon its passage and approval.
Section Three: That all ordinances or parts of ordinances thereof in conflict herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of any such conflict.
Section Four: That any section or provision of this ordinance that is construed to be invalid or void shall not affect the remaining sections or provisions which shall remain in full force and effect thereafter.