Navigating Downers Grove Fence Codes

The Village of Downers Grove (850 Curtiss St) emphasizes neighborhood character and long-term durability. We handle all compliance for you:

• The 36"–42" Post Rule: While some villages allow shallower holes, Downers Grove standards generally require posts to be set below the frost line. Panorama Fence, Inc. defaults to a 36-inch minimum (and up to 42 inches) to prevent "frost heave" from tilting your fence during the harsh Illinois winter.

• Height & Styling:

  • Rear & Side Yards: Maximum height of 6 feet.

  • Front Yards: Fences are generally limited to 3 feet and must be an "open" design (at least 50% open) to maintain the streetscape's airy feel.

• The "Finished Side" Rule: Per Village ordinance, the decorative, finished side of your fence must face outwardtoward neighbors or the street. All structural posts and rails must face the interior of your property.

• Drainage & Stormwater: Fences must not impede the natural flow of stormwater. We ensure proper ground clearance, especially in areas with known drainage swales, to protect your yard and your neighbor's property.

• Corner Lots: Corner side yards have specific setback requirements (typically 4 feet from the property line) and may have height restrictions to ensure "sight triangles" remain clear for drivers.

 

Our deep-set footings exceed standard requirements, ensuring your investment stays perfectly level even as the ground freezes and thaws.

 

Hardscaping: Downers Grove Patios & Stone Design

In Downers Grove, adding a patio requires careful calculation of "impervious surface" ratios.

• Permit Management: We handle the permit application via the Village’s Online Permit Portal, providing the required site plans and engineering details.

• Stormwater Compliance: For larger patios, the Village may require a stormwater review. We design our hardscapes with proper pitch and, where necessary, permeable options to stay within Village guidelines.

• Base Engineering: We use a high-density compacted stone base for all paver projects to account for local soil conditions, preventing the shifting and dipping common with DIY installs.

 

Seasonal Cleanups: The New 2026 "No-Sticker" Program

Downers Grove recently upgraded its waste collection services. We coordinate our maintenance with the Village’s current provider (Republic Services/LRS):

• Sticker-Free Organics: As of April 2026, stickers are no longer required for yard waste bags or cans! We manage the bagging of your leaves and debris for your weekly collection at no extra "per-bag" cost to you.

• Organics Carts: If you have opted into the 35, 65, or 95-gallon organics cart, we will stage all debris directly into the cart for easy pickup.

• Brush Bundling: We handle the pruning and bundling. Bundles must be tied with natural twine, cut to 4 feet or less, and weigh under 50 lbs.

• Winter Organics: Starting in December 2026, Downers Grove now offers winter organics collection. We can provide year-round cleanup services to keep your property pristine.

 

Why Choose Panorama Fence, Inc. for Downers Grove?

• Digital Permit Experts: We manage the entire application and inspection scheduling through the Village’s Online Portal.

• Tree Preservation: Downers Grove is a "Tree City USA." We ensure your fence or patio installation respects the critical root zones of parkway and heritage trees.

• Full-Service Handling: From J.U.L.I.E. utility marks to final debris removal, we take care of every detail.

 

Official Village Resources

• Community Development: (630) 434-5500 | Address: 850 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515

• Permit Portal: Village of Downers Grove Permits

• Waste Program Info: New 2026 Waste & Recycling Details