Exotic Pets: Arlington Heights vs Des Plaines
How do exotic pets rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Des Plaines, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Arlington Heights.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights prohibits keeping dangerous wild or exotic animals within Village limits. The municipal code restricts ownership of wild, dangerous, or venomous animals on residential property. Illinois state law also regulates exotic animal ownership through the Dangerous Animals Act and the Herptiles-Herps Act. Common domestic pets including dogs, cats, and small caged animals are permitted.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines MC §6-1-1 restricts farm animals (livestock) in city limits. Illinois has no statewide exotic pet preemption. Dangerous exotic animals effectively prohibited under state and local law.
View full Des Plaines rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Des Plaines |
|---|---|---|
| Exotic Animals | Prohibited in residential areas | - |
| State Law | 720 ILCS 585/ Dangerous Animals Act | No IL statewide exotic pet preemption |
| Ferrets | Legal in Illinois | - |
| Venomous Reptiles | Prohibited | - |
| Code Enforcement | (847) 368-5200 | - |
| Code | - | Des Plaines MC §6-1-1 |
| Farm Animals | - | Prohibited in city limits |
| Exception | - | Up to 6 hens with permit only |
| Contact | - | Cook County Animal Control: 708-974-6140 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Arlington Heights?
Yes. Ferrets are legal in Illinois and are generally permitted in Arlington Heights as domesticated pets.
Are hedgehogs allowed?
Hedgehogs are legal in Illinois and are typically considered small domesticated animals. Check with the Village to confirm they are not classified as restricted wildlife under the local ordinance.
What happens if I'm caught with an illegal exotic animal?
The animal may be seized by animal control, and you may face Village fines plus state-level penalties of up to $1,000 under the Illinois Dangerous Animals Act.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Des Plaines?
Des Plaines MC §6-1-1 restricts farm animals (livestock) in city limits. Illinois has no statewide exotic pet preemption. Dangerous exotic animals effectively prohibited under state and local law.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Des Plaines?
Code: Des Plaines MC §6-1-1. Farm Animals: Prohibited in city limits. Exception: Up to 6 hens with permit only. State Law: No IL statewide exotic pet preemption.
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