|
What is a Fence?
The Wheeling Zoning Ordinance defines a "fence" as
any structure which is a barrier and is used for purposes of
privacy, protection or confinement. Fences are divided into two
types: those which interrupt vision (solid) and those which
permit vision (open).
How High Can a Fence Be?
For safety, light and ventilation purposes, heights of
fences are limited depending upon their location. Solid fences
may be 6'0" high in side and rear yards and 3'0" high
in front yards. An open fence may also be 6'0" high in rear
and side yards and up to 4'0" high in front yards. The
height of a fence is the distance from the existing ground
(grade) to the top-most portion of the fence. To avoid creating
a drainage problem on both your property and your neighbor's,
you cannot change the ground level without first getting
approval from the Village Engineer.
Fence Location
A fence of approved height may go almost anywhere on your
property. If a fence is constructed in the front yard, it must
be at least 1'0" away from your front property line. If a
fence is to be built across a drainage easement or swale, the
bottom must be at least 4" above the ground to allow storm
water to pass beneath it. If another fence is already built
along any property line, it is not a good idea to put another
one next to it. To do this creates a lawn area which is
impossible to keep up and the outside of the fence cannot be
maintained or repaired. It may be possible, with your neighbor's
written permission, to attach your fence to his, or another end
post can be installed on your property.
Other Considerations
Since fences may only be installed on your property, it is
important to know exactly where the property lines are. If you
cannot locate them from your survey, it would be wise to hire a
surveyor to establish your lot corners. With these corners
established, it will be possible for you or your fence builder
to install the new fence in the right location. Do not rely on
your neighbor's fence or hedge, a utility pole or the sidewalk
when deciding where to install your fence.
The installation of a fence affects both your property and
surrounding properties. It is a good idea to discuss your plans
with the neighbors. The type of fence, location and costs may be
influenced when neighbors work together to solve common
problems.
Requirements
A permit issued by the Department of Community Development
and payment of a fee is required prior to the installation of a
fence. Information required to apply for a permit is a copy of
your survey showing the proposed location of the fence and a Fence
Permit Application form which will indicate the kind of fence and its height.
Most
homeowner associations have requirements for the design and
location of fences. If you are a member of such an association,
check the rules and regulations. Authorization from the
association is required, and must accompany the application for
construction of the fence. After the permit is issued,
J.U.L.I.E must be contacted for utility locates.
An inspector will visit your property to be certain that no
unnoticed factors will influence the desired fence
installation. Upon approval of the permit request and payment of
the inspection fee, a permit is issued. The permit
and inspection reports are then filed for record and future
reference.
For further information, contact the Community Development
Department at (847) 459-2620.
Government
| Services | Community
| Development
| Reference
Desk
Search | Site Map
| Home
The Village of Wheeling,
Illinois
255 West Dundee Road
Wheeling, IL 60090
(847) 459-2600
Click here to send feedback
to the Village of Wheeling.
All information © 2007 Village of Wheeling, Illinois
Site Use
Policy
Site Design/Development by
|
