Evanston allows backyard chickens under a licensing program administered by the Health and Human Services Department. Roosters are prohibited and hens require an annual license. Livestock other than chickens is generally not permitted in residential zones.
Evanston permits residents to keep up to six hens on residential property with an annual chicken license from the Health and Human Services Department. Roosters are prohibited. Coops must be located in rear yards at least 5 feet from property lines and must be maintained in sanitary condition. Chickens must be confined to the owner's property at all times. Other livestock such as goats, sheep, and pigs are not permitted in residential zoning districts. The keeping of rabbits and ducks may be subject to similar restrictions. Violations are enforced through Code Enforcement. Contact Community Development at (847) 448-4311 for zoning questions.
Operating without a chicken license or keeping roosters may result in fines and an order to remove the animals. Code violations carry fines starting at $75 per day. Repeat violations may result in revocation of the chicken license.
Evanston, IL
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