Evanston, IL Animal Ordinances: Livestock (2026)

Evanston's zoning ordinance does not permit livestock keeping in residential districts (R1 through R6). Livestock includes horses, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, donkeys, mules, and similar farm animals. These animals are associated with agricultural uses that are incompatible with Evanston's dense suburban residential character. The city's animal ordinance under Title 9 reinforces that animals creating a nuisance through noise, odor, or unsanitary conditions are prohibited. While backyard chickens have been permitted under specific conditions (hens only, no roosters, with a permit), larger livestock does not qualify for residential keeping. Potbelly pigs are generally classified as swine and are not permitted in residential zones. Miniature goats and similar trending small livestock are also prohibited without a special variance. Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control regulations apply to all animal keeping within Evanston. Any request for livestock in a residential area would require a zoning variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals, which is rarely granted for livestock in established residential neighborhoods.