Fencing Requirements: Downers Grove vs Naperville
How do fencing requirements rules compare between Downers Grove, IL and Naperville, IL?
Downers Grove and Naperville have similar restriction levels.
Downers Grove, IL
DuPage County
In unincorporated DuPage County, any pool, spa, or hot tub 24 inches deep or larger, 250 square feet or larger, or with a recirculating system must be enclosed by a 48-inch non-climbable fence with self-closing, self-latching gates. The rule is enforced under the DuPage County Building Code (Article XIII, Sec. 8-1300, adopting the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code).
View full Downers Grove rules →Naperville, IL
DuPage County
Naperville requires all pools over 24 inches deep to be surrounded by a barrier per the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Existing fences may not meet pool barrier standards and must be evaluated.
View full Naperville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downers Grove | Naperville |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Standard | - | Intl. Swimming Pool & Spa Code |
| Gates | - | Self-closing, self-latching |
| Threshold | - | Over 24 inches deep |
| Hot Tubs | - | Locking cover alternative |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Downers Grove FAQ
How tall does my pool fence need to be in DuPage County?
At least 48 inches (4 feet) high and non-climbable, with self-closing and self-latching gates, per the DuPage County Building & Zoning Department guidance applying County Building Code Article XIII, Sec. 8-1300 (2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code).
Which pools and spas need a fence in unincorporated DuPage County?
Any swimming pool, spa, or hot tub that is 24 inches or more deep, has 250 square feet or more of surface area, or is equipped with a water-recirculating system. These trigger both the permit requirement and the 48-inch barrier rule.
Can my above-ground pool wall count as the barrier?
Yes, if the pool walls are 48 inches above grade at every point. In that case, a removable lock-up ladder is acceptable in place of a yard fence. For hot tubs, a rigid locking cover may substitute for a perimeter fence.
Do I need a building permit for my DuPage County pool?
Yes. Permits are submitted online through the Accela Citizen Access portal. You need a scaled Plat of Survey showing the pool, construction plans with UL/ETL-listed equipment specs, fencing details, and (for trust-held properties) a notarized Trust Disclosure form. Contractors must be registered with the DuPage County Building Division.
Naperville FAQ
What kind of fence do I need around my pool in Naperville?
The barrier must comply with the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, including minimum height requirements, maximum gap sizes, and self-closing/self-latching gates. Your existing fence may not meet these standards.
Does my hot tub need a fence?
Hot tubs over 24 inches deep need a barrier. If a barrier cannot be installed, a safety cover that locks is required as an alternative.
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