Bolingbrook, IL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Code of Ordinances § 8-42
- Penalty
- $75.00 plus impoundment cost
- Definition source
- "Running at large" defined in § 8-2
- Redemption window
- 7 days (owner known), 5 days (unknown)
- Vaccination proof
- Required within 72 hrs of redemption
Summary
Bolingbrook requires owners to keep dogs and cats from running at large at all times. A pet found loose on a street, sidewalk or public place without a secure leash and without the property owner's permission will be picked up and impounded.
(a)It is unlawful to fail to prevent any dog or cat from running at large in the village at any time. Dogs or cats which are running at large shall be taken up and impounded.(b)The penalty for violation of this section shall be $75.00, plus the cost of impoundment, if paid within ten days of the date of violation, and each day that such violation shall occur or continue shall constitute a separate offense.
Full Breakdown
Section 8-42(a) of the Code of Ordinances makes it unlawful to fail to prevent any dog or cat from running at large in the village at any time, and it directs that dogs or cats found running at large be taken up and impounded. Section 8-2 defines running at large as any animal on a street, alley, sidewalk or other public place without being held securely on a leash, and without permission from the owner of that property, which means a dog loose in someone else's yard without that owner's consent also counts, not just animals on public streets.
A leash is defined in the same section as a cord, rope, strap or chain securely fastened to a collar or harness at a length and strength sufficient for the handler to maintain control in public. 00 per day the proof is withheld. A dog or cat with an identified owner not redeemed within seven days, or an animal without an identified owner not redeemed within five days, may be transferred to a humane society, released for adoption, or otherwise disposed of under state law.
Violations & Fines
Letting a dog or cat run at large is a $75.00 fine under section 8-42(b), plus the cost of impoundment if paid within ten days, and each day of the violation is a separate offense. Beyond the fine, the animal itself is impounded and the owner bears redemption fees and daily boarding costs at the village fee schedule rate until it is reclaimed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my dog have to be leashed even in someone else's yard?
What happens if my dog is picked up for running at large?
How long does the village hold an impounded pet before it can be adopted out?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bolingbrook
Compare Bolingbrook to another location·View the Illinois animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Dog Leash Laws in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Will County handle dog leash laws.