Chicago, IL Animal Ordinances: Bird Protection (2026)
Key Facts
- Allowed areas
- Wolf Lake, Lake Calumet, Calumet River only
- Weapon limit
- Shotgun only, no other firearm
- Distance rule
- 750 feet from any building
- Penalty
- $100-$250 fine per offense
- License required
- Illinois Wildlife Code hunting license
Summary
Chicago prohibits hunting or killing game birds anywhere in the city except three narrow lakefront districts, where hunters are limited to shotguns fired at least 750 feet from any building.
Any person licensed to hunt under the provisions of The Illinois Wildlife Code, as amended, may hunt or kill game birds in the open season as provided by the laws of the state, within the following prescribed districts and portions of the city: upon Wolf Lake and along the shores thereof; upon Lake Calumet and along the shores thereof; and upon the Calumet River and along the banks thereof. Provided, however, that no weapons shall be used for the purpose of hunting such birds, or killing or wounding, or attempting to kill or wound such birds, other than a shotgun, and that such shotgun shall not be discharged anywhere within 750 feet of (1) any building or structure used or intended for human habitation or employment, or to be used as a barn or stable; or (2) the centerline of the right-of-way of Stony Island Avenue. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be fined not less than $100.00 nor more than $250.00. (Prior code § 193-32; Amend Coun. J. 5-16-90, p. 15819)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through Council Journal of June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Chicago Municipal Code § 8-24-050 confines bird hunting to three lakefront zones: Wolf Lake and its shores, Lake Calumet and its shores, and the Calumet River and its banks. Only hunters licensed under the Illinois Wildlife Code can pursue game birds there, and only during the state's open season. The ordinance bars any weapon but a shotgun and forbids firing one within 750 feet of an occupied building, barn, stable, or the centerline of Stony Island Avenue. Anywhere else within city limits, killing or wounding a bird for sport is unlawful. Violators face fines set by the section itself.
Violations & Fines
Fines of $100 to $250 per offense for hunting outside the permitted lakefront districts, using a prohibited weapon, or firing within 750 feet of a building.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hunt birds anywhere in Chicago?
What weapon can I use to hunt birds in Chicago?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chicago
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Bird Protection in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle bird protection.