All fences in unincorporated Cook County require a permit regardless of height or material. Fences must comply with zoning setbacks, visibility requirements at corners, and maintenance standards. Building and Zoning reviews all applications.
Cook County Zoning Ordinance (Ord. 01-O-30) establishes comprehensive fence requirements for unincorporated areas. All fences require a permit from the Department of Building and Zoning. The ordinance defines a fence as a structure used as a barrier for boundary, screening, separation, privacy, protection, or confinement. Fences must comply with setback requirements from property lines and roadways. Corner lots must maintain sight triangles for traffic visibility. Fences must be maintained in good condition and not create hazards. Deteriorating fences may be cited as property maintenance violations. The permit application must include a site plan showing fence location, height, and materials. Fences may not encroach on public rights-of-way or easements. The zoning administrator reviews applications for compliance.
Unpermitted fence: $100–$1,000 fine. Deteriorating fence: property maintenance violation. Sight triangle obstruction: safety violation.
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