Naperville, IL Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 10-4-5-2
- Dog limit
- 3 per property
- Cat limit
- 3 per property
- Litter exception
- up to 4 months old
Summary
Naperville, Illinois caps households at 3 dogs and 3 cats each, though a litter can stay for up to four months after birth before the cap applies.
The number of dogs and cats that a person may keep on their property in the City is limited to a maximum of no more than three (3) dogs and no more than three (3) cats with the exception that a litter may be kept for a period of time not exceeding four (4) months from birth. To otherwise exceed this maximum shall be unlawful. A person keeps an animal if they provide shelter, food, water and care to said animal, or otherwise exercise any control over the animal.2.The provisions of this Section shall not apply to persons who are licensed to engage in the businesses of pet shop operator, kennel operator or animal shelter. (Ord. No. 90-95, 5-15-90; Ord. No. 22-044, § 2, 5-3-2022; Ord. No. 23-147, § 2, 11-7-2023)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 101).
Full Breakdown
Naperville Municipal Code § 10-4-5-2 limits any property in the city to a maximum of three dogs and three cats, with an exception letting a litter remain for up to four months from birth. Anyone who feeds, shelters, or otherwise cares for an animal counts as keeping it for purposes of the cap, so it isn't limited to the titled owner. The limit doesn't apply to licensed pet shop operators, kennel operators, or animal shelters. Exceeding the maximum is itself the violation, separate from any at-large or licensing offense under the same Chapter 4.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the 3-dog/3-cat limit is a separate unlawful act; Chapter 4's general penalty applies, $100 for a first offense, $100 to $500 for repeat offenses, each day counted separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs or cats can I have in Naperville?
Does a new litter of kittens or puppies count toward the limit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Naperville
Compare Naperville to another location·View the Illinois animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.