Exotic Pets: Des Plaines vs Skokie
How do exotic pets rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Skokie, IL?
Des Plaines has fewer restrictions than Skokie.
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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie prohibits the keeping of dangerous or exotic animals including large reptiles, venomous species, primates, and wild carnivores. The Illinois Dangerous Animals Act (720 ILCS 585) also bans many exotic species statewide, supplementing local rules.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| 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 supplements local rules |
| Contact | Cook County Animal Control: 708-974-6140 | Police (847) 982-5900 |
| Wild Carnivores | - | Prohibited |
| Primates | - | Prohibited |
| Venomous Reptiles | - | Prohibited |
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.
Skokie FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Skokie?
Common exotic pets like parrots, ferrets (legal in Illinois), and small non-venomous reptiles are generally allowed. Dangerous or wild species such as big cats, primates, and venomous snakes are prohibited.
Are ferrets legal in Skokie?
Yes. Illinois legalized ferret ownership statewide and Skokie permits them as household pets. Vaccination and care standards still apply.
What if I already own a prohibited exotic animal?
Contact Skokie Animal Control and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Keeping a prohibited animal can result in immediate confiscation and fines.
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