Springfield, IL Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Permit rules are in Sec. 155.069(c). No fence exceeding four feet in height may be erected in any residential, commercial, or industrial district unless a fence permit is obtained from the office of the zoning administrator, at a cost based on the standard building permit fee. The individual or agency actually constructing the fence is responsible for obtaining the permit, and no work may start until the permit has been obtained. Under Sec. 155.069(c)(2), a fence permit becomes null and void one year from the date of issuance if the fence has not been completed. Permits are administered by the City of Springfield Building & Zoning Department within the Office of Public Works, Room 304, Municipal Center West, 300 S. 7th St. The city's combined permit application (which lists 'Fence' as an improvement type) requires the street address, whether the lot is a corner lot, the zoning, lot width and depth, and two plot plans showing property lines, the fence location with distances to all property lines and structures, lineal footage of each side, fence type, and fence height. Fences within a mapped floodplain additionally require a floodplain development permit under Chapter 150. Variances from the fence standards are sought through the Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission under sections 155.212 and 155.213.