Residential Fence Codes and Regulations for Tinley Park, IL

Tinley Park, located in the southwest corner of Cook County, is one of the fastest growing suburbs of Chicago. Business Week magazine named it the best place to raise a family in 2009. It’s full of recently built homes and features a historic downtown district to make it an attractive family-oriented community that attracts homeowners who want to live outside of Chicago but remain close enough to commute easily. Interstate 80 passes through the community, speeding people to work. Median home prices are higher than average, with most homes built since the 1970s.

General Ordinances for Residential Fences

Fence codes and rules in this incorporated Village are straightforward, and property owners planning a project can download a well-prepared guide from the city’s website. You’ll also find a summary of rules and restrictions below. The Village Building Department is always happy to discuss your installation project with you and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Any contractor you hire to install a fence must be licensed and bonded with the city, and will be familiar with all local regulations. All permit applications are reviewed and that process can take from seven to ten business days.

• Building Permit Required? – A permit is required for all fences. That permit costs $50.
• Permit Documentation Needed – You’ll need a plat of survey with the fence drawn on the document. If you’re hiring a contractor, a copy of the contract is also required.
• Fence Materials Allowed – All typical residential materials are allowed, including chain link, wood, ornamental aluminum and steel, and PVC vinyl.
• Maximum Height Limits – Maximum height for residential fences is 6′.

• Property Line Issues – Projects may be built up to the property line, but must not encroach on neighboring properties.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection after completion is required.
• Building Authority Contact – 708-444-5100
• Building Department Website

Specific Rules and Codes

• Front Yard Fences – No fences extending past the front of the main building on the lot are allowed.
• Side and Rear Yards – Fences up to 6′ in height are allowed, but may not extend past the front of the primary building.
• Corner Lot Restrictions – Portions of the yard on corner lots that abut streets or public rights-of-way are considered to be front yards. Fences may not extend past the primary building into those areas.

• Swimming Pool Fences – If there is a swimming pool in the yard, the fence surrounding that part of the property must be at least 5′ high.
• Utility Easements – Fences may be built in utility easements on the property, but the owner is responsible for access to the easement if work must be done. The fence may have to be removed at the owner’s expense or repairs made at the owner’s expense if it is damaged by workers.
• Other Restrictions
  • The “good side” of the fence must face out.
  • Chain link fences must be installed with any pointed ends directed downward at the bottom of the fence.
  • No barbed wire or sharp security fence tops are allowed.
  • Electrically charged fences cannot be installed.
  • Posts must be installed to a depth that ensures fence rigidity.

• Homeowner’s Association Issues – HOA covenants and restrictions may be different from Village of Tinley Park rules for fences. Homeowners must abide by any such covenants or restrictions.
• Commercial Fence Codes – Ordinances and regulations for fencing at commercial or industrial properties vary from zone to zone. Before planning any fence on a non-residential property, consult the Village Building Department.

Fence Installation Codes in Tinley Park, IL

Homeowners in this Cook County community take great pride in the appearance of their homes. While some people with building skills install their own fences as DIY projects, most residents hire an experienced local contractor to handle the job. Your contractor can show you a wide range of materials and design choices that will enhance your property and make it unique. You can expect the contractor to give you a competitive price quote for the project for comparison. Once you choose a company to do the installation, the contractor will get the necessary permits and install your project efficiently and correctly. A beautiful, expertly installed fence is an asset that increases your home’s value and helps you enjoy your life outdoors.