Residential Fence Codes and Regulations for Bolingbrook, IL

Located in Will County, just south of Naperville, Bolingbrook is a suburb of Chicago with a population of nearly 75,000. For commuters, traffic flows into Chicago on I-55, which follows the southern city limits. Originally developed in the post-WWII building boom, it has continued to grow over the years. Tree-lined streets and a wide range of home styles give this city a variety of housing that matches its cultural diversity. With almost 50% of households having children under the age of 18, schools, parks and recreational opportunities are important. Home prices and median household incomes are about average for Chicagoland suburbs. Ample shopping, dining and green space areas add to the attractions of life in this community.

General Requirements for Residential Fences

Homeowners thinking about fence projects have a set of easy-to-follow rules and regulations to guide them. Adding an attractive enclosure around your home is relatively easy, and the required permit is low in price. In most subdivisions in Bolingbrook, backyard fences are common, while front yard enclosures aren’t the norm. Most property owners here choose to have a licensed contractor registered in the city handle the installation of their fences, due to their busy lives. The guidelines below will help you decide what type of project you can build at your location.

• Building Permit Required? – A permit is required for all fence projects. The fee for these permits is $40.
• Permit Documentation Needed – You’ll need a plat of survey with the proposed fence drawn on it.
• Fence Materials Allowed – All typical residential materials are allowed, including wood, PVC vinyl, ornamental aluminum and steel, and chain link.
• Maximum Height Limits – Maximum fence height is 6′, with lower limits in front yards.

• Property Line Issues – Rear and side yard fences may be built up to the property line. Front yard fences must be set back 2′ from public sidewalks or 1′ from the property line.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection after completion is required.
• Building Authority Contact – 630-226-8470
• Building Department Website

Specific Ordinances and Restrictions

• Front Yard Fences – These may not exceed 3′ in height, and may not be more than 16′ long. Designs must be ornamental, using picket, post and rail or split rail construction.
• Side Yard Fences – Any type of fencing up to 6′ in height is permitted, and may be built up to the property line.
• Back Yard Fences – These may be up to 6′ in height and built up to the property line. On double frontage lots, rear fences abutting a street must be set back 5′ and include a gate. The area between the fence and the lot line must be maintained with landscaping.
• Corner Lot Restrictions – Side yard fences for corner lots have the same restrictions as front yard fences, unless set back 10′ from the property line, where they may be 6′ high. Ornamental fencing is required. A 15′ sight line triangle must be observed at intersecting streets, with no fencing in that area.

• Swimming Pool Fences – These must be a minimum of 4′ high and have a lockable gate.
• Other Restrictions
  • Posts must be set into the ground for 1/3 of their length.
  • Fences must not obstruct drainage in easements.
  • Pet enclosures must be no more than 6′ high, cannot exceed 200 sq. ft. and may not be closer than 10′ from any property line.
  • No barbed wire, electrically charged or potentially dangerous materials with spikes or other protrusions are allowed.
  • No chain link fences are permitted along major streets.
  • Chain link woven mesh must be at least 11 gauge or heavier.
  • Chicken wire fences are prohibited.
  • Contractors hired must be registered with the city of Bolingbrook.
• Homeowner’s Association Issues – If your home is part of a development or subdivision with an HOA, permission from the HOA for your design must accompany your permit application.
• Commercial Installation Codes – Commercial and industrial properties have different requirements and restrictions. Contact the Bolingbrook Community Development Department before planning these fences.

Bolingbrook Building Ordinances

While some very handy Bolingbrook homeowners take on fence construction as a DIY project, most rely on local contractors for complete installation. A number of experienced contractors who specialize in this work are registered with the city. By calling one or more of them, you can get a free consultation to help you plan your design and select materials. If you compare cost estimates from more than one builder, you’ll assure yourself of an affordable, beautiful addition to your home. If you decide to build your own fence, a wide range of materials is available at home supply centers nearby. Either way, a well-built fence is an investment in beauty, safety and privacy for you and your family.