Are Chickens Allowed in Illinois? A Complete Guide
Over the past decade, interest in raising backyard chickens has grown rapidly across the United States — and Illinois is no exception.
More families are drawn to the idea of collecting fresh eggs, knowing exactly how their food is produced, and enjoying the companionship of chickens.
But before you start planning a coop or bringing home a flock, the first question is clear: are chickens actually allowed where you live in Illinois?
The short answer: Yes, backyard chickens are allowed in many parts of Illinois, but rules vary widely from one town to another.
Some municipalities embrace chicken keeping with clear guidelines, while others still prohibit it altogether.
The key is understanding your local ordinances before moving forward.
Why Backyard Chickens Are Growing in Popularity
Before diving into the local laws, it helps to understand why so many people are exploring chicken keeping in Illinois:
- Fresh Eggs Daily: Nothing compares to the taste and nutrition of fresh, home-raised eggs.
- Educational for Families: Caring for chickens teaches children responsibility, biology, and the cycle of food.
- Natural Pest Control: Chickens love to eat bugs and help reduce ticks, mosquitoes, and garden pests.
- Composting Helpers: Their manure, when properly managed, can be turned into rich fertilizer for gardens.
- Companionship: Many chicken keepers discover hens have personalities and can be surprisingly affectionate.
Of course, these benefits are balanced with challenges like coop cleaning, predator protection, and noise concerns —
which is why Illinois towns have developed specific rules to regulate chicken keeping responsibly.
Cities in Illinois Where Chickens Are Allowed
While Illinois does not have a statewide law banning or allowing chickens,
many towns have adopted ordinances that permit backyard flocks under certain conditions.
Here are some examples:
Lombard, IL
Lombard allows residents to keep chickens, but there are clear guidelines:
- Up to 6 hens allowed (must have at least 2 hens).
- No roosters permitted.
- Chickens must be kept in the rear yard only.
- Coop must be at least 10 feet from property lines.
- A village-issued permit is required before starting.
Champaign, IL
Champaign has welcomed backyard chickens with a structured program:
- Up to 6 hens allowed.
- No roosters allowed.
- Only single-family and two-family homes qualify.
- Chickens must be confined to the backyard.
- A coop license is required annually.
Elgin, IL
Elgin permits backyard chicken keeping with specific requirements:
- A maximum of 4 hens is allowed.
- Roosters are prohibited.
- A city-issued license is required.
- Coops must meet spacing and design standards.
Chicago, IL
Interestingly, the city of Chicago allows residents to keep chickens without a set numerical limit. However:
- No roosters if they become a nuisance due to noise.
- Coops must be clean and sanitary to prevent odors and vermin.
- Neighbors may report violations if the flock causes problems.
Cities in Illinois Where Chickens Are Prohibited
While backyard chickens are becoming more common, not every Illinois community is on board.
Some towns still ban chickens altogether:
Skokie, IL
- The village prohibits chickens and other livestock entirely.
Common Requirements Across Illinois Towns
Even though the details differ, most Illinois ordinances share similar themes.
If your town allows chickens, expect to see rules like these:
- Permits and Licenses: Many towns require official approval before keeping chickens.
- Limits on Flock Size: Typically 4–6 hens per household.
- Rooster Bans: Roosters are almost always prohibited due to crowing.
- Backyard Only: Coops must be placed in the rear yard, not side or front yards.
- Setbacks: Coops must meet minimum distance requirements from property lines and neighboring homes.
- Sanitation Rules: Coops must be clean, odor-free, and well-maintained.
Steps to Take Before Getting Chickens
If you’re thinking about adding chickens to your property in Illinois,
here are important steps to follow:
- Check Local Ordinances: Contact your city or village clerk, or check their website for chicken-keeping laws.
- Talk to Neighbors: Even if it’s legal, it’s wise to let neighbors know and address concerns ahead of time.
- Apply for Permits: Submit any required paperwork and pay fees before building your coop.
- Design a Proper Coop: Ensure your coop meets space, setback, and security requirements.
- Plan for Year-Round Care: Chickens need protection in Illinois winters and shade in hot summers.
- Register if Needed: Some areas require registration with the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chickens in Illinois
1. Can I keep chickens in any Illinois city?
No. Each city or village sets its own rules. Some allow chickens with permits, others ban them completely.
Always check your local ordinance first.
2. Are roosters allowed in Illinois?
In almost all cases, roosters are not allowed. Their crowing creates noise complaints, which is why ordinances nearly always ban them.
3. How many chickens can I own?
Most towns that allow chickens limit households to between 4 and 6 hens.
Chicago is one exception where there is no specific limit, though nuisance laws still apply.
4. Do I need a permit to keep chickens?
Many Illinois cities, including Lombard, Champaign, and Elgin, require permits or licenses. Fees and renewals may apply annually.
5. Can I sell eggs from my backyard chickens?
Selling eggs usually requires compliance with Illinois Department of Agriculture rules.
For small-scale use, you can consume them or share with friends and neighbors without issue.
Conclusion
Backyard chickens are legal in many parts of Illinois, but the rules depend heavily on your exact location.
Some towns embrace chicken keeping with clear ordinances, while others restrict or ban it.
The best step is to check your local government website or zoning office before investing in a coop.
If your community allows chickens, you’ll find the experience rewarding — from fresh eggs to natural pest control and the joy of raising your own flock.
By following the guidelines, keeping your coop clean, and being respectful of neighbors,
you can enjoy all the benefits of backyard chickens while staying on the right side of the law.
