Palm Beach is known as a town with many rules.
This is a spot-on characterization of an island that long has sought to set itself apart from other places, in part by maintaining standards for an aesthetic that generally is supported by residents.
Some of the strictest rules have to do with the timing of construction projects. The rule of thumb on Worth Avenue is to get those done during the summer months because once the season starts, restrictions kick in. Anyone seeking to open a business ought to be aware of these rules — or risk a potentially costly surprise.
Recently, luxury retailer Louis Vuitton came out on the wrong side of town officials when it sought to continue work on its planned Worth Avenue store throughout the season. At its Sept. 11 Development Review Committee meeting, the Town Council voted unanimously to deny the company’s request to continue working from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through March 31 on its 222 Worth Ave. location.
Palm Beach allows construction on Worth Avenue only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, from May 1 through Oct. 31. Any construction outside of those times and dates requires council approval.