Skokie prohibits the keeping of dangerous or exotic animals including large reptiles, venomous species, primates, and wild carnivores. The Illinois Dangerous Animals Act (720 ILCS 585) also bans many exotic species statewide, supplementing local rules.
Under Skokie's Chapter 14 animal code, the keeping of dangerous, wild, or exotic animals is prohibited in residential districts. Prohibited species typically include lions, tigers, leopards, wolves, bears, primates (monkeys, apes), venomous reptiles, large constrictor snakes, alligators, crocodiles, and other animals that pose a public safety risk. Illinois's Dangerous Animals Act (720 ILCS 585) independently prohibits keeping life-threatening reptiles and large cats without a proper permit. Common pet reptiles, small non-venomous snakes, ferrets (legal in Illinois), and exotic birds (parrots, cockatiels) are generally permitted as household pets. Licensed educational or exhibition facilities may be exempt. Contact Skokie Animal Control via Police non-emergency at (847) 982-5900 for questions.
Keeping prohibited exotic animals results in immediate confiscation, fines of $500 to $2,500, and potential criminal charges. Owners are responsible for boarding or euthanasia costs. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle exotic pets.
See how Skokie's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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