Romeoville's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Romeoville, Illinois, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Exotic Pets

Romeoville residents seeking to trap nuisance wildlife must first obtain a permit from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Will County's exotic animal ordinance (§155-9.25) requires special use permits with minimum acreage for exotic species. Common nuisance animals (raccoons, squirrels, opossums) should be reported to Animal Control at 815-886-1018.

Key details: Nuisance Wildlife: IDNR permit required to trap. Will County: §155-9.25 — special use permit for exotics. Removal: Call Animal Control 815-886-1018 after trapping. State Law: No IL statewide exotic pet preemption.

Possession of prohibited exotic animals: $500–$5,000 fine, animal seizure, and potential misdemeanor charges. Escaped exotic animals creating public danger may result in felony charges and full liability for damages.

Breed Restrictions

Romeoville does not have breed-specific legislation banning particular dog breeds. Illinois has no statewide breed ban preemption, but Romeoville has not enacted local breed restrictions. All dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, and contained per the Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5).

Key details: Breed Bans: None — no BSL in Romeoville. State Law: 510 ILCS 5 — no breed preemption. All Dogs: Licensed, vaccinated, contained. Enforcement: Animal Control 815-886-1018.

Failure to comply with dangerous dog requirements carries fines of $500–$1,000. Dogs that cause serious injury may be ordered euthanized. Owners face potential criminal charges for negligent handling.

Romeoville is more permissive than most cities when it comes to breed restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

Beekeeping

Romeoville's specific beekeeping regulations are governed by the Village zoning code. Will County amended its zoning for beekeeping in 2018 (Ordinance 18-192). Illinois Bees and Apiaries Act (510 ILCS 20) requires state registration with the IL Department of Agriculture at no cost. Contact Village Planning for local guidance.

Key details: State Law: 510 ILCS 20 — registration required. Will County: Ord. 18-192 governs unincorporated beekeeping. Registration: Free through IL Dept of Agriculture. Contact: Village Planning 815-886-7200.

Beekeeping complaints are handled through nuisance provisions. Non-compliant apiaries receive correction notices. Fines of $50–$100 apply if setback or flyway barrier requirements are not met within 30 days.

Dog Leash Laws

Romeoville enforces animal control through its Police Department's Animal Control division. Pets found roaming streets are impounded ($45 pickup fee + $10/day boarding). All dogs and cats 6 months or older need a rabies tag and a Village tag ($4/year). Illinois Animal Control Act (510 ILCS 5) requires vaccination and containment.

Key details: Impound Fee: $45 pickup + $10/day boarding. Village Tag: $4/year ($2 seniors), expires July 1. Rabies: Required by state law (510 ILCS 5). Animal Control: 815-886-1018.

Leash violations carry fines of $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second, and $250 for subsequent offenses. Dogs at large may be impounded with retrieval fees of $50–$150. Failure to clean up waste is a $75 fine.

The Bottom Line

Romeoville's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Romeoville is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Romeoville's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.