Livestock: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do livestock rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Des Plaines and Evanston have similar restriction levels.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines City Code prohibits keeping horses, cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and other livestock in all residential and most commercial districts. Only traditional household pets are permitted in residential zones.
View full Des Plaines rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Evanston generally prohibits keeping livestock including goats, sheep, horses, pigs, and cattle on residential property. The city's zoning code restricts animal husbandry to appropriately zoned areas. Chickens are allowed under specific permit conditions, but larger livestock animals are not permitted in residential zoning districts. The city follows Cook County health regulations for animal keeping.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Horses/Cattle | Prohibited | - |
| Goats/Sheep | Prohibited | Not allowed residentially |
| Pigs (any size) | Prohibited | - |
| Allowed | Traditional household pets | - |
| Contact | Animal Control (847) 391-5400 | - |
| Livestock | - | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Pigs | - | Not permitted including potbelly pigs |
| Horses | - | Not allowed in residential areas |
| Variance Required | - | Zoning Board of Appeals |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
Can I keep a horse in Des Plaines?
No. Des Plaines is fully suburban with no agricultural zoning. Horses and other livestock are prohibited throughout the city.
Are pot-bellied pigs allowed as pets in Des Plaines?
Generally no. Pigs of any size are typically classified as livestock under Des Plaines' animal regulations and are prohibited in residential zones.
Can I keep miniature goats in Des Plaines?
No. Miniature livestock are still classified as livestock and are prohibited regardless of size.
Evanston FAQ
Can I keep goats in my backyard in Evanston?
No. Goats are classified as livestock and are not permitted in Evanston's residential zoning districts. You would need to apply for a zoning variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals, which is rarely granted for livestock in residential areas.
Are miniature pigs allowed?
No. Potbelly pigs and miniature pigs are generally classified as swine under the city code and are not permitted in residential zones, regardless of size.
Can I get a special permit for livestock?
You would need to apply for a zoning variance, which requires a hearing before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Given Evanston's dense residential character, variances for livestock are rarely approved. Contact the Community Development Department at (847) 448-4311 for information.
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