Evanston follows Illinois state law on boundary fences. If a fence is on or near the property line, both neighbors share maintenance responsibilities under the Illinois Fence Act. The finished side of a fence is not required to face outward by city code, though it is recommended.
Under the Illinois Fence Act (765 ILCS 130), when a fence sits on the boundary line between two properties, both property owners share responsibility for maintenance and repair costs. Evanston does not have a local ordinance requiring the finished side of a fence to face outward, though many contractors install fences with the finished side facing the neighbor as a standard practice. Before building a fence near the property line, Evanston recommends obtaining a survey and discussing the project with adjacent neighbors. Disputes over boundary fences are civil matters between property owners, not enforced by the city. If a fence is located entirely on one property owner's side of the line, that owner bears full responsibility. The city's mediation services may be available for fence disputes. Contact Community Development at (847) 448-4311.
Boundary fence disputes are civil matters under Illinois law. The city enforces only zoning and building code requirements (height, setbacks, permits). Fences in disrepair that create safety hazards may be cited under property maintenance codes with fines of $50 to $200.
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