McHenry County, IL Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Solid fence max
- 6 feet
- Open fence max
- 8 feet
- Front/street yard solid
- 3 feet
- Authority
- UDO § 16.56.050H
- Cities differ
- Crystal Lake § 4-700
Summary
In unincorporated McHenry County, the Unified Development Ordinance caps a solid fence (obscuring more than 50% of the view) at six feet. Open fences may reach eight feet if they meet principal-structure setbacks. Solid fences in a front/street yard are limited to three feet.
Solid fences are limited to a maximum height of six (6) feet, unless a taller fence is otherwise required by this Ordinance. ... Open fences are limited to a maximum height of eight (8) feet, unless they meet the setback requirements for principal structures.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2025 S-5: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. A25-0037, passed 8-19-2025 | State legislation current through ALS 2025 Pamphlet No. 1).
Full Breakdown
The McHenry County UDO (Title 16, § 16.56.050H) governs fences on unincorporated land. Solid fences are limited to six feet and are generally prohibited in effective street yards, except that a solid fence up to three feet is permitted in any yard. Open fences (less than 50% obscured) may reach eight feet, or higher only if they satisfy principal-structure setbacks. Incorporated cities set their own limits: Crystal Lake caps most rear/side-yard fences at six feet, street-abutting yards at four feet (with a five-foot setback), and front yards at three feet under UDO § 4-700. Always confirm with your municipality.
Violations & Fines
Enforced by the McHenry County Department of Planning & Development as a zoning violation; over-height or non-compliant fences may require modification or removal, and continuing violations can bring daily fines under Title 16 enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my fence be in unincorporated McHenry County?
Do city limits change the rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in McHenry County
How McHenry County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare McHenry County to another location·View the Illinois fence regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.