Before You Build in Highland Park, IL: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Illinois Fence Act (765 ILCS 130) governs agricultural boundary fences. In residential Highland Park, fence placement must be shown on a plat of survey. No state cost-sharing law for residential fences.

No fence may be erected or altered in Highland Park without a permit from the Building Division. Applications require an Exterior Permit Application, contractor quote, and plat of survey.

Highland Park Chapter 173 (Fences and Flagpoles) limits non-combustible open fences to 6 feet maximum height measured from average ground level of both sides. Building permits required.

Swimming pools in Highland Park require building permits and must be enclosed by a fence at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates per local building code and state law.

Swimming pool construction in Highland Park requires building permits and compliance with adopted building codes. Chapter 98 (Bathing Beaches and Swimming Pools) contains specific regulations.

Above-ground pools with minimum 42-inch walls may be exempt from separate fencing under Illinois state law. Building permits still required in Highland Park for all pool types.

Highland Park does not appear to have a specific ADU ordinance. Accessory dwelling units may require zoning approval under Chapter 150. Illinois HB 2373 (2024) encourages ADU development statewide.

Highland Park Code of Ordinances Chapter 150 (Zoning) limits detached garages in residential districts by lot coverage and accessory-structure square footage, with maximum size tied to a percentage of the rear yard or an absolute cap (typically around 1,000 sq ft, whichever is less). All work requires a building permit under Chapter 170 (Building Code), which adopts the 2018 International Building/Residential Codes.

Highland Park regulates carports as accessory structures under Title XV, Chapter 150 of the Zoning Code (Article II Definitions and Article VII Area, Bulk and Density). Permitted accessory uses are governed by Article IV (Section 150.401 et seq.) and dimensional limits including residential lot development requirements appear in Section 150.703. A separate building permit is required from the Building Division under Chapter 170 (Building Code), which adopts the 2018 International Residential Code as locally amended.

Building permits required for sheds in Highland Park. The city publishes Shed Permit Requirements (v2.1). Applications must include property owner authorization and be submitted through the Civic Access Portal.

Open burning of refuse is prohibited in Highland Park per Illinois EPA regulations (415 ILCS 5). Recreational fires may be permitted in approved containers with proper clearances and attendance.

Portable fire pits are allowed in Highland Park with conditions. Fires must be in approved noncombustible containers, properly attended, and not create smoke nuisance to neighbors.

Highland Park requires a tree removal permit for any tree 8+ inches DBH regardless of condition. Heritage Trees require Zoning Board of Appeals review. Dead trees still need an approved permit application.

Highland Park has extensive tree preservation rules under Chapter 94. Trees 8+ inches DBH are Protected Trees requiring permits for removal. Heritage Trees (large oaks, elms, hickories, walnuts) receive the highest protection.

Water restrictions in Highland Park are managed by the city's water utility. The city draws from Lake Michigan. Seasonal conservation measures may apply during drought conditions.