Microchipping: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do microchipping rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights and Chicago have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control requires microchipping for every dog and cat released through county-supported shelters. Owners must keep registry data current; many suburban shelters and rescues have adopted matching policies under Chapter 30.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago Animal Care and Control microchips every dog and cat before adoption or owner-redemption under MCC 7-12-310. There is no citywide mandate that privately owned pets be chipped, but Illinois Animal Control Act 510 ILCS 5 expects identification on impounded animals.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption rule | Microchip required at release | MCC 7-12-310 chip before release |
| Code chapter | Cook Code Chapter 30 | - |
| Registry duty | Keep contact info current | - |
| Lead agency | CCDARC | - |
| Suburbs | Most match adoption rule | - |
| Cost at adoption | - | Included in fee |
| Impound rescan | - | $25 at CACC intake |
| Lookup tool | - | AAHA Universal Microchip Lookup |
| Private mandate | - | None citywide |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Where do I update my pet's microchip information?
Through the chip manufacturer's registry plus any local license database. After moves, phone changes, or ownership transfers, update both promptly so CCDARC can reunite a lost pet quickly with the right owner.
Is microchipping required for all Cook County pets?
Not universally yet. CCDARC requires it for shelter adoptions and strongly encourages it at licensing. Many Cook suburbs and Chicago Animal Care and Control match the rule, so it functions as the county baseline.
Chicago FAQ
Is microchipping required for my pet?
Not for privately owned animals. Only CACC adopters and reclaimed-impound owners must accept a chip under MCC 7-12-310. Most vets recommend it because tags fall off and chips greatly improve return-to-owner rates.
How do I update chip registration?
Contact your chip manufacturer (HomeAgain, AKC Reunite, etc.) or use the AAHA Universal Lookup to find your registry. Update address and phone whenever you move; CACC matches numbers against current contact info.
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