Livestock: Evanston vs Skokie
How do livestock rules compare between Evanston, IL and Skokie, IL?
Evanston and Skokie have similar restriction levels.
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 →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie prohibits all livestock including horses, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, and poultry on residential lots. The village has no agricultural zoning, and all land is zoned residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional with no farm animal provisions.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Livestock | Prohibited in residential zones | - |
| Goats/Sheep | Not allowed residentially | - |
| Pigs | Not permitted including potbelly pigs | - |
| Horses | Not allowed in residential areas | - |
| Variance Required | Zoning Board of Appeals | - |
| All Livestock | - | Prohibited village-wide |
| Includes | - | Horses, cattle, goats, pigs, poultry |
| Mini Varieties | - | Also prohibited |
| Agricultural Zoning | - | None in Skokie |
| Contact | - | Code Enforcement (847) 933-8235 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Skokie FAQ
Can I keep a mini pig as a pet in Skokie?
No. Mini or pet pigs are considered livestock under Skokie's animal code and are prohibited in all residential zones.
Can I have a goat for yard maintenance in Skokie?
No. Goats of all varieties (including miniature) are prohibited. Skokie has no agricultural zoning and no livestock permits are available.
Where can I keep livestock near Skokie?
You would need to look at properties in rural zoning districts in outlying Cook, Lake, or McHenry counties with appropriate agricultural zoning.
Compare other topics
See how Evanston and Skokie compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool