Fence Permits: Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do fence permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires a fence permit for new fence installation. Front-yard fences are limited to 4 feet and rear/side fences to 6 feet. Corner lots have additional sight-triangle restrictions.
View full Des Plaines rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie requires fence permits for most fence installations. Height, material, and location restrictions vary by zoning district, with front yard fences typically limited to 4 feet and rear yard fences to 6 feet.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required | - |
| Front Yard | 4 ft max | - |
| Rear/Side | 6 ft max | - |
| Pool Fence | 4 ft + self-latching gate | Safety features required |
| Sight Triangle | 30 inches at corners | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes |
| Front Yard Max | - | Typically 4 feet |
| Side/Rear Max | - | Typically 6 feet |
| Prohibited Materials | - | Barbed wire, electric, razor |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Do I need a permit for my Des Plaines fence?
Yes, a fence permit is required for new fence installation. Apply through Community Development with a plot plan and fence details.
How tall can my backyard fence be?
Rear and side-yard fences are typically limited to 6 feet. Front-yard fences are limited to 4 feet. Corner lots have additional sight-triangle restrictions.
Which side of the fence faces my neighbor?
The finished (smooth) side typically must face neighbors and the public street. Posts and rails should be on your side.
Skokie FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Skokie?
Front yard fences are typically limited to 4 feet; side and rear yard fences may reach 6 feet. Verify exact limits with Community Development based on your zoning.
Which side of the fence should face out?
The finished (smooth) side should face your neighbors and the street. The structural side faces your property.
Do I need a permit to replace an existing fence?
Yes, most fence replacements require a permit even if matching the existing fence.
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