Fence Permit in Cook County, Illinois
- Permit Required
- Yes
- Authority
- Cook County
- Maximum Height
- 6 ft
- Last Verified
- 2026-09-29
What the official source says
“A permit is required for all unincorporated properties for fences constructed of any material at any height.”
cookcountyil.gov
“In residential districts, the maximum allowable height of a fence along a common lot line is 6-feet.”
cookcountyil.gov
Verify before you build — primary source for this page: https://www.cookcountyil.gov/sites/g/files/ywwepo161/files/service/fencepermitrequirements.pdf
Size / Height Limits
Maximum height without a permit: 6 ft.
How to apply
- Confirm the rules for your address with Cook County — the official sources on this page are the place to start.
- Prepare a simple site plan or drawing showing where the fence work goes and its size.
- Submit the application and pay the permit fee.
- Schedule the required inspections and keep the approved permit on site.
More detail: our fence permit guide.
Building Department
Cook County
Official Sources
FAQ
Do I need a fence permit in Cook County, Illinois?
Yes. A permit is required for fence work in Cook County. The official source says: “A permit is required for all unincorporated properties for fences constructed of any material at any height.”
Is there a size or height limit before a fence permit is needed in Cook County?
The verified threshold is 6 ft in height.
Where do I apply for a fence permit in Cook County?
Applications go to Cook County.