Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs

1. What are the responsibilities of the Community Development Department?
2. Are garage sales allowed in the Village?
3. How do I obtain copies of the Village Codes and Ordinances?
4. What Village Codes regulate construction?
5. What type of proposed development/new construction information can the Community Development Department provide?

Planning and Zoning

1. What are the zoning districts in Lincolnshire?
2. How can I find the zoning of a property?
3. What are the setback requirements in residential zoning districts?
4. What yard obstructions are allowed in residential lots and where can they be located?
5. Are residential fences allowed in Lincolnshire?
6. How are home occupations regulated?
7. What is the minimum lot size for residential districts?
8. Where can I find a platted lot survey of my residence?

General FAQs

1. What are the responsibilities of the Community Development Department?
The responsibilities of the Community Development Department include, but are not limited to: being a liaison to the Zoning Board and Architectural Review Board; interpret and enforce Zoning Code and Building Code amendments; interpret and enforce Subdivision Code amendments; prepare the Comprehensive Plan Update for the Village of Lincolnshire; manage the Village's Economic Development activities; review and issue all permits; and manage the Downtown Redevelopment project.

2. Are garage sales allowed in the Village?
Garage sales are allowed in the Village of Lincolnshire provided the required Permit is obtained from the Department of Community Development no less than 48 hours prior to the start of any garage sale. The number of allowable garage sales at each residence is no more than two (2) garage sales in any calendar year. In addition, the Village Board has authorized off-site directional signs to direct buyers to the location of the garage sale. For more detailed information, see Garage Sales, or contact the Community Development Department at 847-883-8600.

3. How do I obtain copies of the Village Codes and Ordinances?
Copies of the Village Codes and Ordinances can be purchased at the front desk of Village Hall. A copy of the entire municipal code is also available at the Vernon Area Public Library and can be viewed online.

4. What Village Codes regulate construction?
The Village Code that regulates construction is Title 5: Building Regulations of the Village Code.

5. What type of proposed development/new construction information can the Community Development Department provide?
The Community Development Department can provide the zoning, type of use, developer information and general site plan information for any proposed development or new construction. Questions can usually be answered by telephone or by scheduling an appointment with the appropriate Department Staff.

Planning and Zoning

1. What are the zoning districts in Lincolnshire?
The zoning districts and classifications of Lincolnshire are as follows:

2. How can I find the zoning of a property?
The zoning of a property can be found by viewing the Zoning Map or by contacting the Community Development Department at 847.883.8600. Village of Lincolnshire Zoning Maps are also available for purchase at the front counter of the Village Hall.

3. What are the setback requirements in residential zoning districts?
The setback requirements of residential properties are as follows:

Other considerations may apply to each residential district. If you have questions regarding required yard setbacks, please contact the Community Development Department at 847-883-8600.

4. What yard obstructions are allowed in residential lots and where can they be located?
Allowable yard obstructions on residential lots are as follows:

In any required yard:

• Chimneys, overhanging roof eaves, open terraces, and awnings
• Ornamental light standards
• Flagpoles
• Landscaping
• Fences and screens
• Off-street parking
• Paved surfaces no closer than five feet (5') from any property line
• Signs

In required front yard:

• Decorative wall elements only for those residential properties which front a major arterial street (Half Day Road/Route 22, Riverwoods Road or Milwaukee Avenue) within Lincolnshire

In required side yard:

• Fences

In required rear yard:

• Recreational equipment and facilities
• Laundry drying equipment
• Arbors and trellises
• Fences
• Children's playhouses, tree houses and tree platforms

There are additional restrictions that apply, please contact the Community Development Department if you need specific questions answered.

5. Are residential fences allowed in Lincolnshire?
Residential fences are allowed in Lincolnshire and are regulated by Title 6-15 of the Village Code.

6. How are home occupations regulated?
Home occupations are regulated by Title 6-5-3 of the Village Code. Home occupations are defined as professions practiced by a member of the family residing on the premises. Certain types of home occupations are prohibited. To obtain a complete list and specific code requirements, please contact the Community Development Department at 847-883-8600.

7. What is the minimum lot size for residential districts?
The minimum lot size for residential districts are as follows:

Special use lot areas may require different lot size requirements. If you have any questions regarding minimum lot sizes, contact the Community Development Department at 847-883-8600.

8. Where can I find a platted lot survey of my residence?
Most of the platted lot surveys of subdivisions and some residential properties are located at the Village Hall in the Community Development Department.