Kane County, IL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Running at large
- Public nuisance, impoundable countywide
- "Control" defined
- Leash, own property, cage, or voice recall
- Leash standard
- Cord/rope/strap/chain, sufficient strength
- Citation
- Kane County Ord. § 9, § 2.06, §
- Fine
- $75–$500; each day separate
Summary
Any dog not under the immediate control of its owner and found straying or running at large anywhere in Kane County is a public nuisance and may be impounded. "Control" means secured by a leash, on the owner's property, caged, or under voice recall.
Any dog not under the immediate control of its owner or the owner's agent, found straying or running at large... shall be deemed and considered to be a public nuisance. Any dog found running at large or straying in any incorporated or unincorporated area of Kane County... may be apprehended and impounded.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Kane County's Animal Control Ordinance (§ 9) declares any dog running at large a public nuisance countywide, impoundable in incorporated and unincorporated areas alike. Restraint is defined by "control" (§ 2.06): secured by a leash, within the owner's property, confined in a cage/crate/vehicle, or under immediate voice recall. "Leash" (§ 2.13) means a cord, rope, strap, or chain of sufficient strength to keep the animal under control. Municipalities (Aurora, Elgin, St. Charles) may impose stricter leash rules within city limits; the county rule governs unincorporated areas and sets the countywide floor.
Violations & Fines
Ordinance violation; fine not less than $75 nor more than $500 (§ 49). Each day is a separate offense. Impoundment plus board, tag, and impound fees apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is voice control allowed instead of a leash?
Does the leash rule apply in Aurora or Elgin?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kane County
Compare Kane County to another location·View the Illinois animal ordinances overview
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