Des Plaines, IL Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Finished Side
- Faces neighbor/street
- Posts/Supports
- On owner side
- Neighbor Consent
- Not required
- Property Line
- Confirm via survey
- Disputes
- Civil matter
Summary
Des Plaines requires fences to be installed entirely on the owner's property, with the finished or 'good' side facing outward toward neighboring lots and the public right-of-way. Boundary disputes are civil matters not enforced by the city.
When 2 or more persons have lands adjoining, each of them shall make and maintain a just proportion of the division fence between them, and if such fence shall be a hedge fence, then the owner or owners of such hedge fence shall, during the year after such hedge has attained the age of 7 years, cut back or trim such hedge fence to a height not to exceed 4 feet, and shall at least once in every 2 years thereafter, cut back or trim such hedge fence to the height of 5 feet. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any hedge fence protecting either an orchard, buildings or wind break, nor shall the provisions of this Section apply to any such fence for the preservation of wildlife and protection against soil erosion.
Full Breakdown
Des Plaines fence regulations require that all fence posts, structural members, and supports be located on the owner's side of the property line, with the smooth or finished side facing the neighbor or street. This is a common municipal standard intended to keep aesthetics consistent throughout neighborhoods. Owners do not need a neighbor's signed consent to build, but should confirm property lines with a current plat of survey to avoid encroachment. Fences placed directly on a shared property line require mutual agreement between adjoining owners and become joint responsibility for maintenance under common-law principles. The city does not mediate fence disputes. Contact CED at (847) 391-5380 for permit and zoning questions.
Violations & Fines
Fences with the structural side facing outward or installed across a property line may be required to be reversed, modified, or removed at owner expense. Code violations typically carry fines of $75 to $250.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which side of the fence faces the neighbor in Des Plaines?
Do I need my neighbor's permission to build a fence in Des Plaines?
Will Des Plaines settle a fence dispute with my neighbor?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Plaines
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Neighbor Fence Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle neighbor fence rules.