Livestock: Evanston vs Tinley Park
How do livestock rules compare between Evanston, IL and Tinley Park, IL?
Evanston and Tinley Park 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 →Tinley Park, IL
Cook County
Tinley Park prohibits keeping livestock — including pigs, goats, sheep, horses, and cattle — on residential properties. Limited backyard chickens may be allowed with permits in certain zones, subject to coop, setback, and rooster restrictions.
View full Tinley Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Evanston | Tinley Park |
|---|---|---|
| Livestock | Prohibited in residential zones | - |
| Goats/Sheep | Not allowed residentially | - |
| Pigs | Not permitted including potbelly pigs | - |
| Horses | Not allowed in residential areas | Prohibited residential |
| Variance Required | Zoning Board of Appeals | - |
| Pigs/Goats/Cattle | - | Prohibited residential |
| Chickens | - | Limited, permit required |
| Roosters | - | Typically prohibited |
| Contact | - | Community Dev (708) 444-5100 |
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.
Tinley Park FAQ
Can I keep chickens in Tinley Park?
Limited backyard chicken keeping may be allowed in specific zones with permits, coop standards, and setback requirements. Roosters are typically prohibited. Verify current rules with Community Development before acquiring chickens.
Can I have a goat or pig as a pet?
No. Goats, pigs (including pot-bellied pigs), sheep, and similar livestock are prohibited on residential properties in Tinley Park regardless of size or breed.
What about horses?
Horses are prohibited on residential properties. They may be kept only on agricultural-zoned parcels meeting minimum acreage and setback requirements.
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