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Chicago, IL Animal Ordinances: Microchipping (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Rule
Microchip required before redemption
Applies to
Impounded dogs and cats
Microchip fee
$15 at city clinics
Also required
Rabies vaccination; sterilization if fertile
Opt-out
Vet health certificate or hearing request

Summary

Any dog or cat impounded by Chicago Animal Care and Control must be microchipped before it's returned to its owner, unless a vet certifies the procedure would endanger the animal.

any dog or cat impounded under Sections 7-12-040(a), 7-12-080, or 7-12-290 shall, prior to the animal's return to its owner: (1) have a microchip implanted if it does not already have one; (2) have a confirmed current rabies vaccination; and (3) if the dog or cat is capable of reproduction, be sterilized.

Source: Chicago Animal Care and ControlView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through Council Journal of June 17, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Under Municipal Code of Chicago § 7-12-065, a dog or cat impounded as a stray, for neglect, or under the cruelty provisions must have a microchip implanted, if it doesn't already have one, plus a confirmed current rabies vaccination and sterilization (if capable of reproduction) before the Department releases it back to its owner. An owner can skip microchipping or sterilization only if a veterinarian certifies the procedure would endanger the animal's life or health, or by filing a written hearing request during the stray-hold period set by § 7-12-060. City clinics charge $15 for microchip implantation under § 7-12-115(c)(3).

Violations & Fines

Redeeming an impounded dog or cat without the required microchip, vaccination, or sterilization is barred; owners who dispute it must request a hearing within the stray-hold period or the animal stays impounded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my pet need a microchip to get out of the pound?
Yes: if Chicago Animal Care and Control impounds your dog or cat, it must be microchipped (if not chipped already) before you can redeem it, per MCC § 7-12-065.
Can I avoid microchipping my impounded pet?
Only if a veterinarian certifies the procedure would endanger the animal's health, or you file a written hearing request during the stray-hold period under § 7-12-060.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Chicago

Dog Leash LawsSignificant RestrictionsChickens & LivestockHeavy RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsFew RestrictionsPet Store RulesHeavy RestrictionsPet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsVeterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsBird ProtectionSignificant RestrictionsCoyote ManagementSome RestrictionsBeekeepingSome RestrictionsExotic PetsSignificant Restrictions

All Chicago rules

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