Will County, IL Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock (2026)
Key Facts
- R-1/R-2 goats
- Max 2 goats, 60 lbs, fenced
- R-1/R-2 swine
- Max 1 neutered hog, 250 lbs
- Chickens
- No roosters; 12,500 sq ft min lot
- Setback
- Confinement buildings 25 ft from dwellings
- Scope
- Unincorporated county only, not Joliet
Summary
In unincorporated Will County, R-1 and R-2 lots may keep up to two goats or one neutered hog by right if fenced, weight-capped and set back 25 feet from neighbors' homes; horses and cattle need a special-use permit.
Farm animals permitted as a special use in accordance with § 155-16.40... Buildings and structures that house farm animals in the R-1 and R-2 districts: a. Must be located at least 25 feet from all existing dwellings (except the animal owner's); ... c. Shall not be located in a front or other street yard area.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2025 S-25: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ordinance No. 24-100, passed 4-18-2024 and Res. 23-387, passed 11-16-2023; and State legislation approved through 2024 Pamphlet #2).
Full Breakdown
Will County's zoning code (Title XV) lets unincorporated landowners keep livestock as of right without limit in the A-1, A-2, E-1 and E-2 farming districts. In the R-1 and R-2 residential districts, chickens (no roosters, 12,500 sq ft minimum lot), rabbits, and pigeons are allowed by right, and up to two 60-lb goats or one neutered 250-lb hog are permitted if fenced; larger horses, cattle and other farm animals require a special-use permit under § 155-16.40. Confinement buildings must sit at least 25 feet from neighboring dwellings and stay out of front yards. This only applies to unincorporated county land. Joliet, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Plainfield and Lockport enforce their own municipal codes.
Violations & Fines
Keeping unpermitted or over-limit livestock, or building confinement structures without the required setback, is a zoning violation enforced by the Land Use Department, which can order a stop-work, fine the owner, or require the animals removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep chickens on my Will County property?
Do I need a permit for a goat or pig?
Does this apply inside Joliet or Bolingbrook?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Will County
How Will County compares: Best Cities for Backyard Chickens·Compare Will County to another location·View the Illinois animal ordinances overview
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