Residential Fence Rules and Codes for Chicago Ridge, IL

The Village of Chicago Ridge, IL is a community of 14,400 people located southwest of Chicago, IL. Settlement of the area began around 1882 with the building of new railroad lines through the region, leading to eventual incorporation as a village in 1914. Industry began developing in the area in the late 1800’s, reaching its peak with the Landis Plastics company, a major supplier of food and beverage containers. The area is also known as the host of the popular music event Ridgefest, which is considered to be one of the region’s most significant musical venues.

General Requirements for Residential Fences

• Building Permit Required? – A building permit is required for all residential fence installations in Chicago Ridge. Permits average $25 minimum.
• Permit Documentation Needed:
  • Completed permit application signed by property owner.
  • Project construction plan.
  • Copy of plat of survey showing proposed fence location.
  • Description of type, materials and height of proposed fence.
  • Evidence of contractor registration valid in village with proof of insurance and bonding of $10,000.
  • Inspector site check.
• Fence Materials Allowed – Chain link, wood, masonry, wood split rail, decorative wrought iron, or decorative tubular steel.
• Fence Styles Allowed – Chain link, solid, semi-open.
• Maximum Height Limits – Maximum fence height is 6′.
• Property Line Issues – Fences may be placed up to lot lines in most cases.
• Inspections Needed – Final inspection required after construction.
• Building Authority Contact – 708-425-7700
• Village of Chicago Ridge Building Department

Specific Rules and Restrictions

• Front Yard Fences – No front yard fences permitted on any residential lot beyond the front face of the home structure.
• Side and Back Yard Fences – Maximum height of 6′.
• Line of Sight Obstruction – Walls, fences and plantings and points of ingress and egress must not impair sight of vehicular and pedestrian traffic on public and private streets, sidewalks, and alleys. Fences shall comply with the requirements for maintenance of a clear vision triangle.
• Barbed wire and electrically charged fencing prohibited on residential property.
• Construction side and supports for fences must face in to property owner’s lot.
• Fences constructed of chicken wire, fiberglass, plastic, sheet metal, or plywood are prohibited along any property line.
• Wood posts shall be redwood, cedar, or any species of wood pressure-treated, with an approved preservative.
• Wood picket fences less than five feet in height shall have the top of the pickets sawed or rounded to a blunt end.