Committee clarifies when a fence replacement needs a survey; inspectors can require moves from easements
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Summary
The committee clarified that replacing an existing fence in the same location does not require a plat survey but does require a permit and site plan; inspectors can require removal or relocation if the fence sits in a utility easement or incorrect location.
KANKAKEE, Ill. — During the Nov. 20 meeting of Kankakee Citys Building & Code Safety Committee, aldermen and staff clarified rules for residents replacing fences and the role of inspectors in enforcing easements.
An alderman relayed a constituents concern that she was told an alderman had flagged a problem with her fence; an inspector denied that complaint sources are identified to residents and said complaints are not attributed to aldermen. The inspector confirmed that if a resident replaces a fence in the exact same location, a plat survey is not required but a permit and site plan are required. "If she has an existing fence, she does not need a plat survey," the inspector said, adding that inspectors can require moving or removing fences that are in utility easements or otherwise incorrectly placed.
Committee members discussed that if a fence is on an easement or in the wrong location, the inspector may order it removed and that replacement in a wrong location can lead to removal without replacement by the city.
What happens next: residents with fence questions were advised to submit permit applications with a site plan; staff indicated inspectors will enforce placement relative to easements.