Bird Protection: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do bird protection rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Arlington Heights and Des Plaines have similar restriction levels.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Illinois Wildlife Code (520 ILCS 5) protects native birds, nests, and eggs, including raptors and migratory species. Forest Preserve District of Cook County rules ban harming wildlife in preserves, and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act layers on top.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Illinois Wildlife Code (520 ILCS 5) protects native birds, nests, and eggs, including raptors and migratory species. Forest Preserve District of Cook County rules ban harming wildlife in preserves, and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act layers on top.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| State law | 520 ILCS 5 Wildlife Code | 520 ILCS 5 Wildlife Code |
| Federal overlay | Migratory Bird Treaty Act | Migratory Bird Treaty Act |
| Preserve rules | FPDCC ordinance | FPDCC ordinance |
| Lead agency | IDNR conservation police | IDNR conservation police |
| Permits | IDNR scientific or nuisance | IDNR scientific or nuisance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I remove a bird nest from my eaves?
Not while it contains eggs or chicks. Active nests of native birds are protected under 520 ILCS 5 and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Wait until fledging or seek an Illinois Department of Natural Resources permit for documented hazards.
Is feeding wild ducks or geese illegal in forest preserves?
Yes. Forest Preserve District of Cook County rules ban feeding wildlife in the preserves and many adjacent municipal codes match. Feeding draws nuisance flocks, attracts predators, and pollutes water; citations can issue on first contact.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I remove a bird nest from my eaves?
Not while it contains eggs or chicks. Active nests of native birds are protected under 520 ILCS 5 and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Wait until fledging or seek an Illinois Department of Natural Resources permit for documented hazards.
Is feeding wild ducks or geese illegal in forest preserves?
Yes. Forest Preserve District of Cook County rules ban feeding wildlife in the preserves and many adjacent municipal codes match. Feeding draws nuisance flocks, attracts predators, and pollutes water; citations can issue on first contact.
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