Permit Required? Required (over 5 ft)
Typical Fee Range $75–$250 Corner lots have special rules
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Chicago Dept. of Buildings →

What's Required in Chicago

  • Fence Permits in Chicago are regulated by the City of Chicago Department of Buildings
  • Work must be performed by a licensed Illinois contractor
  • Plans must be filed through Chicago's eBUILD online portal
  • Inspections are required at key stages of construction
  • Final inspection required before project occupancy/use
  • Contractor must hold appropriate trade licenses

How Tall Can a Fence Be Without a Permit in Chicago?

In Chicago, the number that matters is 5 feet: a fence taller than that needs a permit from the Chicago Dept. of Buildings, while anything at or under it can usually go up without one. That cutoff covers standard residential fences; retaining walls, pool barriers, and masonry walls typically follow their own rules, so flag those to the department separately. Even a permit-free fence still has to respect setbacks and corner sight-line rules, so check placement before you dig post holes.

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Fence in Chicago?

For a typical backyard fence at or under 5 feet, no — you can skip the building permit in Chicago. Go taller and you'll file with the Chicago Dept. of Buildings, with permit fees typically in the $75–$250 range. Two cautions before you skip the paperwork: zoning rules (height caps, setbacks, corner visibility) apply to every fence, permitted or not, and HOA or deed rules stack on top of city code. When your plan sits close to the line, a quick call to the department beats rebuilding a fence later.

How to Get a Fence Permit in Chicago

1

Apply via Chicago eBUILD

Submit permit application through Chicago's eBUILD portal at chicago.gov/ebuild.

2

Plan Review

Chicago DOB reviews plans for code compliance. Simple projects may qualify for express review.

3

Pay Fees

Permit fees of $75–$250 are paid online through the eBUILD portal.

4

Begin Construction

Post permit on-site. Work must comply with Chicago Building Code.

5

Final Inspection

Schedule final inspection through the DOB inspection system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most fence permit work in Chicago requires a permit from the Department of Buildings. Check chicago.gov/buildings for specific thresholds and exemptions.
Chicago fence permit fees are typically $75–$250, depending on the project scope and valuation.
Chicago uses the eBUILD online portal (chicago.gov/ebuild) for permit applications. Many residential permits can be applied for online without visiting a permit office.
On record in Chicago, fences over 5 feet need a permit; at or under 5 feet you generally don't need one, though zoning height caps and setbacks still apply.