Fences

Fences

A building permit is not required for the following types of work:

  • Installing a fence that is no more than 5 feet above the ground (measured on both sides) and that conforms to the Chicago Zoning Ordinance
  • Removing a fence that is no more than 5 feet above the ground (measured on both sides)
  • Maintaining an existing fence by painting or replacing limited damaged elements
  • Installing or removing a retaining wall that is not more than 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall), not supporting a surcharge, and not impounding liquids

Historic Buildings

These exceptions may not apply to work on a property that is a proposed or designated Chicago Landmark or part of a proposed or designated Chicago Landmark district. For more information, contact the Historic Preservation Division in the Department of Planning and Development.

Structure in the Public Way

Installation or maintenance of a temporary or permanent structure of any size below, on, or above a public street, alley, sidewalk, or parkway (the “public way”) generally requires a separate public way use permit from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). A temporary structure in the public way that is used for a special event requires a special event permit from the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE).

Use of the Public Way

Use of a public street, alley, sidewalk, or parkway (the “public way”) for construction or demolition activities, the installation of scaffolding, or to store construction or demolition materials or equipment requires a separate permit from the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Code Compliance Required

Any work performed without a building permit, as allowed by Section 14A-4-402 of the Municipal Code, must still comply with all applicable requirements of the Chicago Construction Codes. Section 14A-4-402 does not waive any applicable requirements of the Chicago Construction Codes or of the Municipal Code other than the requirement to obtain a building permit.

If you have a question about whether proposed work is code compliant or requires a building permit, please visit the Department of Buildings assistance counter on the 9th floor at City Hall.