Even an act of charity needs some regulations behind it.

At least that is the thought behind a new set of zoning restrictions currently being reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board in Wheaton.

City Planner Tracy Jones said the new zoning code would limit the number of donation boxes allowed outside businesses, churches or schools, set height requirements and possibly require the owner of the box to apply for a permit through the city.

The purpose is “just to establish some regulations for them,” she said.

Currently the city does not have any zoning regulations on donation boxes. Jones said the idea to enact a new set codes is not in response to any problems that city has been having, but more to prevent any issues that may come up in the future.

Officials are considering limiting the number of boxes to two per zoning lot and having a height requirement of 8 feet and width of 80 feet.

The boxes also would not be permitted within 15 feet of the front property line, and could be placed in most locations throughout the city outside of the downtown community district. Jones said this is because the boxes are traditionally located in large private lots, which do not exist in this area.

They also would also be permitted outside educational centers and churches. The boxes also could not occupy any parking spaces, disrupt the flow of car or pedestrian traffic and a sign must be placed outside the box with the phone number and name of the property owner.

Jones said the board is also considering requiring a permit in order to have a donation box placed in a private lot.

A public hearing about the zoning requirements was conducted in July and will continue during the board’s next meeting Sept. 28. 

She said it is important to gather as much community input as possible about the new regulations before the board goes to a vote.

Jones will also be reaching out the owners of the boxes to invite them to the meeting.