Evanston regulates driveway construction, width, materials, and use. Driveways require a permit and must be constructed of approved hard surfaces. Parking on unpaved surfaces or front-yard grass is prohibited. Driveway widths are limited based on lot width and zoning district.
Under Evanston City Code Title 4 and the Zoning Ordinance, new driveways and driveway expansions require a permit from the Public Works Department. Driveways must be constructed of concrete, asphalt, pavers, or other approved hard surfaces — gravel-only driveways are generally not permitted in residential zones. Maximum driveway width is typically 20 feet or 40% of the lot frontage, whichever is less. Vehicles must be parked on paved surfaces only; parking on front-yard grass or unpaved areas is a code violation. Driveway aprons (the portion in the public right-of-way) are maintained by the city but replaced at the owner's expense when damaged. Evanston's older neighborhoods often have narrow lots with limited driveway options. Contact Public Works at (847) 448-4311.
Unpermitted driveway work faces fines of $100 to $500 and may require removal. Parking on grass or unpaved surfaces carries fines of $50 to $150 per occurrence. The city may require restoration of damaged parkway strips.
Evanston, IL
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