Residential Fence Codes and Rules for Naperville, IL

Naperville, located primarily in DuPage County but with part of the city in Will County, is one of the wealthiest suburbs in the Chicago area. With a population of nearly 145,000, it has been named as one of the best cities in America to live and as an ideal place to retire. With over 45% of homes having children less than 18 years of age, it’s also a family-oriented community with award-winning schools and recreational facilities. Commuting into Chicago is easy via major highways and regular Metra and Amtrak service. A historic downtown district and convenient, upscale shopping centers are additional amenities.

General Ordinances for Residential Fences

Homes in Naperville range from typical suburban housing developments to luxurious homes built in the past three decades. Curving streets and large lots are typical. Most residents choose to have local contractors install fence projects within the city, due to their busy lives and ample incomes. The nature of this affluent suburb lends itself to attractive, well-built features. On many larger properties, fences enclose only part of the lot, and serve both decorative and utility purposes for most homeowners. All are designed to add value to the properties they enclose. The general codes below serve as a guide to homeowners considering a new fence.

• Building Permit Required? – Fences less than 3′ high do not require a permit, but must meet all local regulations. All other construction projects require a permit issued by the city. Those permits cost $80.
• Permit Documentation Needed – You will need two copies of a plat of survey with the fence drawn on them, and a completed application for the permit. A manufacturer’s cut sheet, photo or drawing of the design is also required.
• Fence Materials Allowed – All typical residential materials are allowed, including aluminum, steel, chain link, wood, vinyl and composite, but design requirements vary depending on where the fence is located.

• Maximum Height Limits – Generally, fences are limited to 6′ in height. Fences up to 9′ high, however, may be erected along major arterial roadways.
• Property Line Issues – Fences may be built up to the property line. The finished side must face outward.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection is required on completion.
• Building Authority Contact – 630-420-6100
• Development Department Website

Specific Rules and Restrictions

• Front Yard Fences – Solid fences that extend in front of the main structure may not be more than 3′ high. Open designs, such as metal ornamental fences up to 4′ in height are allowed anywhere on the property.
• Side Yard Fences – These may be up to 6′ high, but must not extend past the front of the home. 
• Rear Yard Fences – Maximum height is 6′, but fences up to 9′ high may be allowed along certain major arterial roadways.

• Corner Lot Restrictions – 6′ high rear yard fences are allowed, but rear yard fences must end 10′ from the lot corner adjacent to the street. Solid designs up to 3′ in height are allowed or open construction up to 4′ anywhere on the property. Sight lines for traffic must not be restricted.
• Other Restrictions
  • Fences in historic districts must have a Certificate of Appropriateness.
  • Fences adjacent to Hobson Road may not be more 4.5′ in height and must be of open design.
  • Where utility poles or transformers exist on the property, strict clearance rules must be followed, or the fence must be removable without the use of tools to allow workers to access the equipment.
  • Barbed wire fences and those with dangerous protrusions are not allowed.
  • Fences enclosing swimming pools must meet city codes and comply with the 2012 IRC building codes.
  • Fences may not be located in any storm water management or conservancy easement.
• Homeowner’s Association Issues – Homeowner’s associations may have more restrictive rules than the city. Homeowners are responsible for adhering to those rules.
• Commercial Fence Codes – Commercial and industrial fences have different regulations and height restrictions. Contact the Naperville Development Services Department for details.

Residential Fence Installation in Naperville, IL

Whether you’re thinking about building your own fence as a DIY project or will have a contractor licensed in Naperville build it for you, as most residents do, careful planning in advance is essential. After reviewing the ordinances and codes above, you can begin thinking about materials, cost and other factors. Visit home improvement centers to look at different types of materials or contact local contractors for consultations and cost estimates. All local contractors can show you a wide range of designs and materials and will install a fence that will grace your property and increase its value. Look at fences already built in your neighborhood for additional ideas, too. It’s always a good idea to talk with immediate neighbors about your plans. In many cases, it’s possible to share the cost of high-quality fencing that separates two properties.