Whether you’re developing a new athletic field or upgrading an existing one, choosing the right artificial turf company in Chicago is key. From football and soccer to baseball, lacrosse, and field hockey, local turf experts understand the unique challenges of building in a city with freezing winters, spring thaws, and heavy seasonal use.
Chicago Artificial Turf
Field Companies
Like other large U.S. cities, Chicago has many artificial turf sports fields used for everything from pee-wee leagues to professional sports events. Chicago provides football, soccer, and baseball artificial turf fields in many public spaces.
Public parks and walkways around the city often have artificial turf in an effort to reduce watering needs, while commercial sports venue owners love the low maintenance. Artificial turf is so popular in Chicago that the city created regulations for its use to ensure some natural grass remains. As such, the City of Chicago welcomes new artificial turf installations, but the city does regulate how, and where, they are installed. Artificial turf sports fields in Chicago may need a permit from no less than four separate departments, depending on the location and use of the field.
In this guide, we highlight the top artificial turf field companies operating in the Chicago area and share the key planning considerations for synthetic turf field installation projects in an around the city.
Artificial Turf Field Companies in Chicago
The best artificial turf pros in Chicago don’t just install turf—they help you navigate city permitting, Midwest weather challenges, and sport-specific performance needs with confidence.
Their systems are engineered to deliver reliable play and minimal upkeep through snow, rain, heat, and everything in between. Whether you’re working with a school, municipality, or private club, these pros know how to keep your field looking sharp and playing smooth for years.
Browse our curated list of top Chicago turf companies to find your match. Whether it’s a full build or a resurfacing job, you can request a free quote and see why these experts are trusted by local schools, parks, and sports organizations across Chicagoland.
Want to compare options outside Chicago? Browse our state-wide directory of artificial turf field companies in Illinois to evaluate top providers across the U.S.
Installing Artificial Turf Fields
in Chicago, IL
Why Choose Artificial Turf Over Natural Grass Fields In Chicago?
Natural turf sports fields in Chicago have vulnerabilities that cause them to be costly to both maintain and repair. Unlike sports fields in dry, arid regions like San Antonio, Texas, Chicago sports fields often freeze, and can lead to frost upheaval of a natural field.
Artificial turf sports fields are designed for the space they will occupy, so potential issues with drainage frost upheaval are designed away. Artificial turf fields are installed over a specific base material, with drains already built in.
In fact, the drainage system and the turf itself can be designed as needed to meet a regular maintenance schedule. Chicago, like Houston and Miami, offers live sports every day of the year, so having a field that does not need to heal allows these venues to extend the season and sell more tickets.
Artificial turf is exponentially less expensive to repair or replace than natural grass, so cost of ownership is much more predictable. The type, installation method, and even the color of artificial turf playing fields can be altered to fit a specific use, or designed to house multiple sports simultaneously.
Does an Artificial Turf Field Require a Permit In Chicago?
Sports fields in Chicago are regulated, whether the field will be made from grass or artificial turf. The requirements are not the same of course, but each will require a permit from at least one, but perhaps, four departments within the city.
Here is a list of the Chicago city departments you may interact with, and when each might want to get involved:
Site Approval
A building permit is generally needed for new construction, repairs, additions, or alterations. Installing an artificial turf field often involves significant site preparation and potential structural changes, requiring a permit from the Department of Buildings.
Public Walkways and Parks
Additionally, if the field is in a public walkway or park, permits from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) or the Chicago Park District may be necessary.
Stormwater Control
If the sports field will reside near other impervious surfaces, such as a parking lot or street, it can affect the natural flow of stormwater. The Stormwater Management Plan will inspect the site and recommend any needed changes.
Public Events
Sports fields used for large gatherings must be regularly inspected to ensure that fire codes are followed, as well as crowd size control. The City of Chicago inspects playing fields before every large event, and issues a permit of occupancy if the field is approved.
Here’s a breakdown of each department’s role, and when they may require an approval:
Chicago Public Parks
Chicago public parks are world famous. The most famous is Lincoln Park, named after the 16th president, who was from Illinois. Lincoln park has several areas with artificial turf instead of grass, which significantly reduces the city’s water consumption.
Chicago has several ordinances in place designed to reduce the use of water on public spaces. Artificial turf is among the methods Chicago employs to achieve this goal, but the material is a mixed blessing.
Artificial turf channels more water than it absorbs, so careful consideration must be given to prevent accidental flooding in heavy rain events. Builders should contact the Stormwater Management Plan office during the planning phase to prevent potential drainage issues.
Public Ways and Thoroughfares
The Chicago Department of Buildings controls the condition of areas where pedestrians can access city owned property. For example, Chicago is laced with alleys that divide tall buildings, and these alleys, along with the connecting sidewalks, are maintained by the city.
Social, Sports, and Public Gatherings (Special Events)
Special events, such as a parade to celebrate a championship, will require prior approval. If these events take place on a playing field, including those made from artificial turf, the field will need to be inspected and approved by the city.
Community Input and Concerns
Chicago is home to a very diverse population. Chicago residents can have varying opinions on having a sports facility nearby to residential neighborhoods. Sporting events can create very loud crowd noise, so Chicago allows local residents to provide input, ask for plans, and be kept informed during a project’s duration.
Planning Considerations for Artificial Turf Projects In Chicago
Those constructing an artificial turf sports field in Chicago will be required to comply with standard rules that many other cities also follow. These include:
Safety Standards
Football, baseball, and soccer fields in Chicago are inspected annually to ensure they meet Gmax level standards for hardness, which is usually at, or below, a 150 Gmax Score. The higher the Gmax score, the more firm the surface.
Maintenance Practices
Regular maintenance includes cleaning and sweeping, maintaining the fiber’s vertical position, and infill redistribution. If the underlying infill is found to be in disrepair, it is refilled as needed. Anti-microbial treatments are also common, as well as checking the drainage system’s operation. .
Environmental Considerations
An artificial sports field in Chicago is treated as an impervious surface, meaning the turf channels water better than it absorbs it. The size of sports fields means the surface can channel significant amounts of rainwater. This drainage must be accounted for, or the sheer volume of water could cause erosion and groundwater contamination.
Infill Material
The infill material, also known as the substrate, determines much of the hardness of the turf. Some artificial turf playing fields use recycled rubber as infill, while others use some form of sand.
Chicago is a sports town, so the city does what it can to reduce injuries. One way is to regulate the infill materials, as a softer surface has been tied to reduced injuries, especially in full contact sports, such as football.
Construction and Manufacturer Supported Installation
Chicago usually defers to the manufacturers directions when inspecting a new artificial turf field installation. These inspections ensure that the base layer (substrate) and drainage system are in proper working order.
Institutional and Public Uses
In Chicago, artificial turf installations are purpose built, and designed for their intended use. These can include keeping the space small enough so as to avoid creating a hot spot. Artificial turf both reflects, and absorbs UV energy from the sun.
Chicago enforces public safety and environmental impact rules consistently. The city will expect engineering documentation certifying that the field will not negatively affect the natural surroundings, such as prevent watering, or create a hot spot that significantly raises the ground temperature.
How Much Do Synthetic Turf Fields Cost In Chicago?
Based on current market data and our internal database of thousands of sports facility projects across the U.S., the cost to install a full-size artificial turf field system in Chicago typically ranges from $700,000 to $1.5 million. The final price always depends on site conditions, turf quality, and competition level. Climate, drainage, and optional add-ons can also impact the total.
Funding Opportunities for Artificial Turf Projects in Chicago
The fastest, and easiest way to sort through the programs available in Chicago is by reviewing our sports facility grants and funding database . You can search for grants and funding programs by state, field size, etc., to quickly discover your options.
Here’s a link to the grants and funding database: Sports Venue Calculator: Grants and Funding
Choosing an Artificial Turf Field Installer In Chicago
Chicago has a wide range of artificial turf installation companies, which can make it challenging to choose the right one for your project. Reputation and community presence are key factors to consider.
In a competitive market like Chicago, companies that invest in customer service, online visibility, and local engagement often deliver better results and more reliable service.
Tips for choosing the right turf supplier in Chicago:
- Check recent project photos and reviews on Google and social media to see real customer feedback and workmanship quality.
- Look for local experience—companies with a history of projects in Chicago understand city regulations, climate, and site challenges.
- Ask about warranties and support to ensure you’re protected long after the installation is complete.
We’ve listed our recommended artificial turf field suppliers operating in Chicago at the top of this page.
Sport-Specific Considerations When Choosing an Artificial Turf Company in Chicago
Baseball, football, and soccer field construction in Chicago is on the upswing. For example, Chicago Fire’s training facility utilizes a hybrid surface that combines artificial turf with natural grass. The artificial turf field complex at Diversey offers year round use, with minimal maintenance expenses.
Baseball, Football, and Soccer Fields
Artificial turf is a great option for baseball, football, and soccer fields in Chicago and the surrounding area. Chicago sports fields must endure more wear, due to the severe low temperatures outdoor fields can experience.
Artificial turf fields can be designed for extra durability, and those in areas of heavy rainfall can include extra drainage capabilities. As in the case of the Diversey complex, the artificial turf field was used to solve an existing drainage problem that had existed for decades.
Commercial Sports Facilities
Commercial sports fields, such as shooting and driving ranges, often choose artificial turf for its consistency and infinite repairability.
Public Areas
Public areas that receive heavy foot traffic benefit from using artificial turf, especially in areas difficult to access with a mower. As cities try to lower their utility bills, artificial turf becomes even more attractive.
Comparing Quotes from Chicago Artificial Turf Installers
Without question, the best way to research the best artificial turf installation companies in Chicago is to use our artificial turf field cost estimator. The calculator provides a cost estimate tailored to your specific project parameters, such as size, location, design, and use.
In our experience, it’s important to request quotes from at least three different companies. Here’s why:
- Compare pricing and avoid overpaying by seeing a range of estimates from multiple vendors.
- Understand market value based on your project’s scope and location.
- Spot potential red flags from unusually high or low quotes.
- Evaluate different offerings such as warranties, materials, and installation timelines.
- Make informed decisions that balance budget, quality, and reliability.
Inspiration for Artificial Turf Field Installation in Chicago
Famous Chicago Sports Fields with Artificial Turf
Guaranteed Rate Field – Chicago, IL
Located on Chicago’s South Side, Guaranteed Rate Field is home to the Chicago White Sox (MLB). While the main playing surface remains natural grass, the stadium features a 12,000 sq ft artificial turf plaza at its entrance used for fan events and game-day gatherings. This synthetic turf area includes foam underlayment for comfort and is built to withstand heavy foot traffic. The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 40,000 and is a central venue for major league baseball and large-scale events.
Lane Tech High School Stadium – Chicago, IL
Located in the North Center neighborhood of Chicago, Lane Tech College Prep High School’s stadium serves as a home field for the school’s football, soccer, and track & field programs. The venue is equipped with a full-sized artificial turf field built to endure year-round use in all weather conditions. The stadium seats roughly 5,000 spectators and is one of the top high school athletic facilities in the Chicago Public Schools system.
Famous Chicago High School & College Programs
Illinois Fighting Illini – University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
As one of the state’s flagship universities, the Fighting Illini represent a rich tradition in NCAA Division I athletics. The football and basketball teams have long histories, with memorable bowl games and March Madness runs. Track and wrestling programs have also earned national accolades. The Illini remain a major force in the Big Ten, shaping Illinois’ identity on the national sports stage.
Mount Carmel Caravan – Mount Carmel High School (Chicago)
Mount Carmel is a historic powerhouse in Chicago high school football, with over a dozen state championships to its name. Known for its physical style of play and strong coaching legacy, the Caravan regularly sends athletes to top NCAA programs. Their tradition of excellence on and off the field makes them one of the most respected programs in the Midwest.
Simeon Wolverines – Simeon Career Academy (Chicago)
Simeon is a national name in high school basketball. The Wolverines have won multiple state championships and produced elite talent that’s gone on to star in college and the NBA. Their athletic programs, especially basketball and track, embody Chicago’s deep sports culture and competitive spirit.
Loyola Academy Ramblers – Wilmette, IL
Located just north of the city, Loyola Academy is a dominant name in Illinois high school athletics. The football team is a perennial contender, with state championships and a consistent presence in national rankings. The school also excels in lacrosse, swimming, and cross-country, combining academic rigor with top-tier sports development.
Whitney Young Dolphins – Whitney M. Young Magnet High School (Chicago)
A top academic school with an equally strong athletic pedigree, Whitney Young has earned recognition across multiple sports. Its basketball program, in particular, is among the best in the nation, with state titles and NBA alumni. The Dolphins’ well-rounded approach to academics and athletics makes them a standout in Chicago’s public school system.