Height Limits: Aurora vs Elgin
How do height limits rules compare between Aurora, IL and Elgin, IL?
Aurora and Elgin have similar restriction levels.
Aurora, IL
Kane County
Aurora allows up to 6 feet in side and rear yards, and 42 inches (3.5 feet) in front yards under UDO §4.7.9. Corner lots have 3-foot limits unless set back 5 feet from the property line. Maximum fence height is 9 feet citywide.
View full Aurora rules →Elgin, IL
Kane County
Elgin allows 3 feet solid or 4 feet open (40%+ open) in front yards. Side and rear yards allow up to 6 feet. Historic districts: 42 inches front, 50% open design. Maximum 6 inches between ground and fence bottom.
View full Elgin rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Aurora | Elgin |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 42 inches max | - |
| Side/Rear | 6 feet max | 6 feet max |
| Corner Lot | 3 ft (or 5 ft setback) | - |
| Max Overall | 9 feet citywide | - |
| Code | UDO §4.7.9 | - |
| Front (Solid) | - | 3 feet max |
| Front (Open) | - | 4 feet (40%+ open) |
| Historic | - | 42 inches, 50% open |
| Ground Gap | - | 6 inches max |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Aurora FAQ
How tall can a backyard fence be in Aurora IL?
Up to 6 feet in side and rear yards. Front yards are limited to 42 inches.
Can I put a chain link fence in my front yard in Aurora?
No. Chain link fencing is prohibited in front yards regardless of height.
Elgin FAQ
How tall can a backyard fence be in Elgin IL?
Up to 6 feet in side and rear yards. Front yards allow 3 feet solid or 4 feet open.
Are there different fence rules in Elgin historic districts?
Yes. Historic districts limit front fences to 42 inches with 50% open design and require a Certificate of Appropriateness.
Compare other topics
See how Aurora and Elgin compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool