Residential Fence Codes and Regulations for Palatine, IL

Located northeast of Chicago and adjacent to Arlington Heights, this Cook County suburban community is home to over 68,000 residents. With over 33% of homes having children under the age of 18, it has a distinct family orientation. Parks and recreation facilities, along with an award-winning school system are points of pride for Palatine. Served by a Metra station, it is a popular commuter suburb, as well. Its rapid growth after WWII, followed by a continuing building boom starting in the 1970s, has created numerous subdivisions and neighborhoods full of attractive homes.

General Codes and Ordinances for Residential Fences

As in all residential communities, many Palatine homeowners want perimeter and other fences for privacy and safety reasons. The Village of Palatine has a set of rules and codes that are practical and ensure attractiveness, durability and safety throughout the community. Both DIY and contractor-built fences are common, and the city’s building department fence permit application clearly states the codes and regulations for all residential fences installed within the city limits. It also includes illustrations to guide property owners.

• Building Permit Required? – A permit is required for all fence projects. The permit costs $62.
• Permit Documentation Needed – You’ll need three copies of a plat of survey showing the proposed work and a copy of a signed contract with any contractor you hire.
• Fence Materials Allowed – All standard residential materials are allowed. Chain link fencing must be at least 11.5 gauge woven wire.

• Maximum Height Limits – Maximum residential fence height is 6′. Height restrictions are lower in many situations.
• Property Line Issues – In most cases, fences may be built up to the lot line, but setback rules apply to front yards. Fences adjacent to streets, must be set back at least 5′, and other restrictions apply.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection is required on completion.
• Building Authority Contact – 847-359-9042
• Building Department Website

Specific Rules and Restrictions

• Front Yard Fences – Decorative fencing only, 3′ high or lower, with a 20′ length maximum. Setbacks vary from zone to zone.
• Side Yard Fences – Fences up to 6′ high are allowed on interior side yards. Where a side yard abuts a street, it must be set back 5′ from the lot line and include landscaping at least 3′ high between the fence and the lot line. Such installations may not extend beyond the front of the house.
• Back Yard Fences – Fences up to 6′ high are allowed around back yards. Where a fence abuts a street, it must be set back 5′ from the lot line and include at least 3′ high landscaping between the fence and the lot line.

• Corner Lot Restrictions – Corner lots must follow the rules above on sides that are adjacent to streets, including the 5′ setback and landscaping requirements.
• Other Ordinances
  • No barbed wire or electrically charged fences are allowed.
  • Chain link fences must have closed loops at top.
  • Posts must be spaced no more than 8′ apart.
  • Wood posts must be 4"x4" and preservative-treated.
  • All products used for a fence must be designed for that use, including hardware.
  • The finished side must face outward from property interior.
  • Fences must be designed to meet 90 mph wind loads.
• Homeowner’s Association Issues – Homeowners must follow all covenants, conditions and restrictions of their HOA contract if they are more restrictive than city regulations.
• Commercial Fence Codes – Requirements on industrial and commercial installations vary from zone to zone. For information on any commercial or industrial fencing, contact the Palatine Building & Inspection Division for guidance.

Residential Fence Installation Codes Palatine, IL

Any time you’re thinking about a new or replacement fence on your residential property, you will have to make many choices. Top-quality materials and expert installation are the keys to a beautiful, durable fence that will beautify your home and provide privacy and safety for you, your family and pets. While building your own fence is possible, most homeowners lack the skills, tools and time to take a project from the planning stages to completion. That’s why most Palatine homeowners begin the process by calling a local, licensed contractor for a consultation and cost estimate. When you do, you’ll be able to compare materials and choose a design, and then let the builder obtain the permit and install your new fence quickly and professionally.