Exotic Pets: Des Plaines vs Oak Park
How do exotic pets rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Oak Park, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Oak Park.
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 →Oak Park, IL
Cook County
Oak Park prohibits keeping dangerous or wild animals as pets in residential areas. Prohibited animals include venomous reptiles, large constrictors, primates, large cats, wolves, and bears. Ferrets are legal in Illinois and permitted in Oak Park.
View full Oak Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 (Dangerous Animals Act) |
| Contact | Cook County Animal Control: 708-974-6140 | - |
| Prohibited | - | Venomous reptiles, primates, large cats, wolves |
| Ferrets | - | Legal in Illinois and Oak Park |
| Large Constrictors | - | Prohibited over 6 feet |
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.
Oak Park FAQ
Can I have a pet ferret in Oak Park?
Yes. Ferrets are legal in Illinois and permitted in Oak Park. They should be kept indoors or under supervision to prevent escape.
Are pet snakes allowed in Oak Park?
Small, non-venomous snakes are generally permitted. Venomous snakes and large constrictor snakes over 6 feet are prohibited. Check with Animal Control if you are unsure about a specific species.
Can I keep a wolf hybrid as a pet in Oak Park?
No. Wolves and wolf hybrids are prohibited in residential areas in Oak Park. Illinois law also restricts possession of dangerous and wild animals.
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