cover
TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: Tracey M. Vacek, Zoning and Planning Director
Lisa Zepeda, Manger of Revenue and Collections
DATE: July 16, 2026
SUBJECT:
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-1, Division 8-IV-3, Division 8-IV-5 pertaining to the Definition of Amusement Device and Poolrooms
PURPOSE:
To amend Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-1, Division 8-IV-3, Division 8-IV-5 of the City Code pertaining to Definition of Amusement Device and Poolrooms to strengthen the licensing regulations while expanding the zoning districts in which poolrooms are permitted.
BACKGROUND:
Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-5 pertaining to the licensing of Poolrooms was last updated in 1998.
Specifically, this text amendment adds video game console into the definition of an amusement device in order to regulate these like other machines.
It also corrects the requirements of the state, changing the verbiage from a license to a tax decal. The State of Illinois does not issue licenses for amusement devices, but does require registration and the display of a tax decal.
This text amendment also updates the use table for poolrooms to Limited but Permitted Use and mirrors those zoning districts referenced in this section of the Code. In addition, it would allow poolrooms in the B-2 zoning district if they met the criteria.
This amendment will require that poolroom licenses be issued only to establishments that operate as full-service restaurants and hold a valid liquor license. The full-service restaurant must remain open to the public during all hours that the poolroom is in operation. Furthermore, at no time may the poolroom be closed to the public for private events or parties.
Staff is recommending deleting the distance requirement for poolrooms from church, hospitals, schools and other poolrooms as we do not feel that this is necessary due to the city having control over the liquor license.
Lastly, this amendment is updating the text to reflect that the operation of 4 or fewer pool tables as accessory to an otherwise permissible principal zoning use is permitted but 5 or more would be considered a poolroom and a license shall apply.
DISCUSSION:
By strengthening the licensing regulations, this will allow the ability to have poolrooms in general business areas within the City.
IMPACT STATEMENT :
This text amendment will allow this flexibility to more businesses and encourage economic development.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends APPROVAL of the Ordinance Amending Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-1, Division 8-IV-3, Division 8-IV-5 pertaining to the Definition of Amusement Device and Poolrooms in conjunction with the proposed related amendments to Chapter 49, being the Aurora Zoning Ordinance
ATTACHMENTS:
Exhibit "A" Text Amendment
cc:
Alderman Edward J. Bugg, Chairperson
Alderman Daniel Barreiro, Vice Chairperson
Alderman Javier Bañuelos
Alderman Shweta Baid
Alderman Will White
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
title
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-1, Division 8-IV-3, Division 8-IV-5 pertaining to the Definition of Amusement Device and Poolrooms
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 City Council of the City of Aurora has determined that it is necessary and desirable to amend Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-1, Division 8-IV-3, Division 8-IV-5 of the Code of Ordinances, City of Aurora, in order to update and improve certain Sections of said Ordinance to better carry out the purpose and intent of said Ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows:
Section One: That the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois finds as fact all of the preamble recitals of this Ordinance.
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 part of Ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed insofar as any conflict exists.
Section Four: That any section, phrase or paragraph of this Ordinance that is construed to be invalid, void or unconstitutional shall not affect the remaining sections, phrases or paragraphs of this Ordinance which shall remain in full force and effect.
Section Five: That the amendments to Chapter 8, Article 8-IV, Division 8-IV-1, Division 8-IV-3, Division 8-IV-5 of the Code of Ordinances, City of Aurora, are hereby approved as set forth in said Exhibit “A”.