Residential Fence Codes for Joliet, IL

Joliet, located in Will and Kendall Counties, is an outer suburb of Chicago, located about 40 miles southwest of the city. With a population near 150,000, it is the fourth largest city in Illinois. It’s an irregularly shaped city, with Interstate 80 passing through the center of the community. The Des Plaines River divides Joliet into a west side and east side, with distinct differences in neighborhoods in the two parts of town. Median household incomes are average, as are housing prices. Joliet’s culturally diverse population, with almost 40% of households having children less than 18 years of age, is family oriented. Although many residents commute into Chicago, via Metra trains or highways, the city is economically self-contained.

General Ordinances for Residential Fences

Fence codes in Joliet are relatively simple and easy to follow. While permits are required for all construction, homeowners can choose their materials freely, with few restrictions. Do-it-yourself installations are popular with residents, but there are also many licensed contractors in Joliet who specialize in fences. You’ll find basic information on project requirements and regulations listed below, and the Building Division staff will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have. As in every community, the goals of these city codes and regulations are to ensure that all fences are attractive, properly built and safe for property owners and other residents.

• Building Permit Required? –  All construction projects require a building permit, which costs $50 for installations valued under $8000.
• Permit Documentation Needed – Applications must be accompanied by a plat of survey with the location of the fence drawn in and a description of the height and materials. A cost estimate is also required.
• Fence Materials Allowed – All typical residential materials may be used, including wood, vinyl, aluminum, steel and chain link.

• Maximum Height Limits – Front yard fences are limited to 4′, with a 6′ height limit for other locations.
• Property Line Issues – Fences may be built up to the property line, but may not encroach on neighboring properties.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection is required on completion.
• Building Authority Contact – 815-724-4070
• Building Division Website

Specific Rules and Restrictions

• Front Yard Fences – Front yard fences are limited to 4′ in height. Chain link construction is allowed.
• Side Yard Fences – Fences of all designs and materials are allowed, up to 6′ in height.
• Back Yard Fences – Back yard enclosures must be 6′ high or less. In rear yards with a landscape easement, the fence must not encroach on the easement.
• Corner Lot Restrictions – Fences must be 4′ tall or less. Sight line triangles are 25′ in length along a side abutment to a single street and 46′ in length at intersections. Solid fences in these triangles may not be more than 30" high. See-through chain link fences may be up to 4′ high.

• No barbed wire or electrically charged fences are allowed in residential zones.
• Fences are not allowed in floodway or flood plain easements.
• Swimming Pool Fences – These must be at least 4′ high, with gates that prevent unattended children from accessing the pool area.
• Homeowner’s Association Issues – Subdivisions governed by HOA covenants may have other restrictions. Property owners are responsible for compliance with those covenants.
• Commercial Fence Codes – Codes for fences on commercial, industrial and other non-residential properties vary from zone to zone. Contact the Joliet Community Development Department for information.

Residential Fence Installation Codes in Joliet, IL

Every homeowner thinking about adding a new fence or replacing an existing one wants it to be attractive, durable, and to protect both property and residents. The City of Joliet has the same goals. Whether you’re building your yard enclosure as a DIY project or hiring a local contractor to install it, it’s a good idea to check with your neighbors and take a close look at other fences in your neighborhood. Every fence should be an asset to the community and help to keep property values high. Your choice of materials and designs will make all the difference. If you’ll be hiring a contractor, get a free consultation and price quote from more than one company so you can compare costs. If you’ll be doing the work, check with several building supply outlets to compare quality and cost of materials.