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πŸ” Animal Ordinances/Animal Hoarding

Animal Hoarding: Chicago vs Houston

How do animal hoarding rules compare between Chicago, IL and Houston, TX?

Houston has fewer restrictions than Chicago.

Chicago, IL

Cook County

Heavy Restrictions

Animal hoarding in Chicago is addressed through the Municipal Code Chapter 7-12 and Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC). Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act (510 ILCS 70) covers cruelty.

View full Chicago rules β†’

Houston, TX

Harris County

Some Restrictions

Animal hoarding in Houston addressed through Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 and BARC Animal Shelter. Texas Penal Code 42.092 for cruelty.

View full Houston rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactChicagoHouston
CodeChapter 7-12Chapter 6
CACC(312) 747-1406-
Cruelty510 ILCS 70TPC 42.092
CPD UnitAnimal Crimes Unit-
BARC-311 or (713) 229-7300
Felony-State jail felony

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Chicago FAQ

How many pets in Chicago?

Municipal code limits apply. Contact CACC at (312) 747-1406.

Report hoarding?

CACC at (312) 747-1406. Serious cases: CPD Animal Crimes Unit.

Penalties?

Municipal fines $200-$500 plus state criminal charges under 510 ILCS 70.

Houston FAQ

How many pets in Houston?

Chapter 6 limits apply. Contact 311 for specifics.

Report?

BARC at 311 or (713) 229-7300.

Penalties?

Code fines plus TPC 42.092 state jail felony for cruelty.

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