Exotic Pets: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do exotic pets rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Evanston.
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 →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston prohibits keeping wild, exotic, or dangerous animals as pets under Title 9 of the City Code. This includes venomous reptiles, large constricting snakes, primates, large cats, wolves, bears, and alligators. Illinois state law (720 ILCS 585) also bans dangerous animals statewide. Only domesticated species such as dogs, cats, small caged birds, fish, and small rodents are permitted without special authorization.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 720 ILCS 585 bans dangerous animals |
| Contact | Cook County Animal Control: 708-974-6140 | - |
| Exotic Pets | - | Prohibited in city limits |
| Ferrets | - | Legal in Evanston |
| Venomous Reptiles | - | Banned |
| Enforcement | - | Cook County Animal & Rabies Control |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Evanston FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Evanston?
Yes. Ferrets are legal pets in Illinois and Evanston. They should be vaccinated for rabies and kept indoors or on a leash when outside.
Are hedgehogs legal in Evanston?
Yes. Hedgehogs are legal under Illinois state law and are not classified as exotic or dangerous animals by Evanston's city code.
What happens if I'm caught with a prohibited exotic animal?
You face city fines of $100 to $500 per day and possible state misdemeanor charges under the Illinois Dangerous Animals Act. The animal will likely be confiscated and placed with an appropriate facility.
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