Fence Regulations in Arlington Heights, IL: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Arlington Heights or are thinking about moving there, fence regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Arlington Heights has 7 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fence regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Pool Barriers

Arlington Heights requires pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Pool barriers must comply with the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as adopted by the village.

Key details: Barrier Height: 48 inches minimum. Gate Latch Height: 54 inches minimum. Self-Closing Gate: Required. Opening Size: Cannot pass 4-inch sphere. Contact: Community Dev (847) 368-5200.

Failure to install required pool barriers may result in stop-work orders, denial of occupancy, and fines. Non-compliant barriers must be corrected before the pool can be used.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Arlington Heights actively enforces its pool barriers requirements.

Permit Requirements

Arlington Heights requires a permit for fence installation or replacement. A plat of survey showing the proposed fence location is typically required as part of the application. Permit fees are modest.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, for all fences. Plat of Survey: Typically required. JULIE/811: Call before digging. Processing Time: 5-10 business days. Contact: Community Dev (847) 368-5200.

Installing a fence without a permit may result in a stop-work order, requirement to apply for a permit retroactively, and potential fines. Non-compliant fences may need to be relocated or removed.

Fence Requirements

Arlington Heights requires fences to be maintained in good condition, properly aligned within property lines, and constructed with the finished side facing outward. Fences must not obstruct drainage or encroach on public right-of-way.

Key details: Finished Side: Must face outward. Property Line: May be placed on line. Electric Fences: Prohibited residential. Razor Wire: Prohibited residential. Maintenance: Must be in good condition.

Fences in disrepair, improperly oriented, or encroaching on the right-of-way may receive code enforcement notices with compliance deadlines. Fines range from $50 to $250 per violation.

Material Restrictions

Arlington Heights prohibits certain fence materials in residential areas including barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fencing. Approved materials include wood, vinyl, ornamental metal, and chain-link with conditions.

Key details: Prohibited: Barbed wire, razor wire, electric. Approved: Wood, vinyl, ornamental metal, chain-link. Sheet Metal: Not permitted. Scrap Materials: Not permitted. Contact: Community Dev (847) 368-5200.

Fences using prohibited materials may receive immediate code enforcement notices requiring removal or replacement. Fines may apply for continued non-compliance.

Retaining Walls

Arlington Heights requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height. Walls over 4 feet typically require engineered plans. Retaining walls must be designed to handle drainage and soil loads without affecting neighboring properties.

Key details: Permit Required: Walls over 4 feet. Engineering: Required for walls over 4 feet. Drainage: Must be included in design. Inspection: Required before backfilling. Contact: Community Dev (847) 368-5200.

Building a retaining wall without required permits may result in stop-work orders and fines. Non-engineered walls that fail may create liability for damage to neighboring properties.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Arlington Heights follows Illinois state law regarding shared boundary fences. There is no village ordinance requiring neighbors to share fence costs. Fences must be built within property lines, and the finished side must face outward.

Key details: Cost Sharing: Not required by village. Finished Side: Must face neighbor/public. Property Line: Fence must be within your lot. Disputes: Civil matter under Illinois law. Recommendation: Get a plat of survey.

Encroaching on a neighbor's property is a civil matter. Building a fence with the unfinished side facing neighbors may result in a code violation notice from the village.

Arlington Heights is more permissive than most cities when it comes to neighbor fence rules. That said, there are still limits.

Height Limits

Arlington Heights limits fence heights based on yard location. Front yard fences are limited to 4 feet, while side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Corner lots have additional visibility triangle requirements.

Key details: Front Yard: 4 feet maximum. Side/Rear Yard: 6 feet maximum. Corner Lot Sight Triangle: 30 inches maximum. Finished Side: Must face outward. Contact: Community Dev (847) 368-5200.

Fences exceeding height limits may receive code enforcement notices requiring modification or removal. Fines may range from $50 to $250 per violation.

The Bottom Line

Arlington Heights's fence regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Arlington Heights is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Arlington Heights's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.