Chicago Municipal Code Section 7-12-030 requires all dogs to be leashed and under control when off the owner's property. Dogs must also be leashed on unfenced portions of the owner's property. Base fine is $300, escalating to $10,000 for incidents causing severe injury.
Section 7-12-030 of the Chicago Municipal Code (Animal Care and Control) requires that dogs be leashed and under the control of their owner or another responsible person whenever they are beyond the property line. Dogs must also be leashed when outdoors on unfenced portions of the owner's property. This applies to all dogs regardless of size or breed. The only exception is for dogs being used in rescue or law enforcement work. Chicago Animal Care and Control enforces these regulations. Off-leash dog parks designated by the Chicago Park District are exempt areas where dogs may be unleashed within the fenced enclosure.
Base fine for leash law violations is $300 (no injury or property damage). If the violation results in property damage, fines range from $300 to $1,000. If severe injury or death results, fines range from $1,000 to $10,000, plus possible restitution, up to 6 months incarceration, or up to 100 hours community service.
Chicago, IL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle dog leash laws.
See how Chicago's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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