Backyard Chickens in Joliet, Illinois

What the Joliet Ordinance Says

Under Joliet’s municipal code, chickens are classified as farm animals (fowl). The animals and fowl ordinance prohibits keeping farm animals — including chickens, ducks, and other fowl — on any residential property unless that property is formally classified as a farm under city zoning.

Standard residential lots do not qualify as farms. Backyard chickens are not permitted for the vast majority of Joliet residents.

The Farm Zoning Exception

Properties classified under agricultural or farm zoning may keep chickens. This applies to a small number of properties on the outer edges of the city near unincorporated Will County. Check your zoning via the Will County GIS or contact Joliet’s Community Development department.

What’s Happening at the State Level

Illinois House Bill 4764, introduced in early 2026, would establish a statewide right to keep backyard chickens and prohibit municipalities from enforcing outright bans. If passed, Joliet would be required to allow hens under regulated conditions — though the city would need time to adopt a compliant ordinance.

As of April 2026, HB4764 is in the Illinois House Rules Committee. This page will be updated if the law changes.

Your Options as a Joliet Resident

Check Whether You’re in Unincorporated Will County

The ban applies only within Joliet’s incorporated limits. Properties outside city limits follow county zoning, which is generally more permissive. Verify your exact municipality before assuming the ban applies.

Advocate for Change

Joliet’s city council is elected and responsive to resident input. Contacting your alderman and attending city council meetings is the most direct path to changing local rules.

Support HB4764

Contact your state representative in support of House Bill 4764. If passed, it would override Joliet’s ban automatically.

Nearby Cities Where Chickens Are Legal

• Naperville — up to 8 hens, permit for coop construction required
• Aurora — up to 6 hens, permit required before getting birds
• Elgin — up to 4 hens, city license and building permit required

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have chickens in Joliet, IL?

No. Under current ordinance, chickens are classified as farm animals and prohibited on standard residential properties. The only exception is for properties with formal agricultural zoning.

Is Joliet going to change its chicken ordinance?

Possibly. Illinois HB4764 would create a statewide right to keep backyard chickens and prohibit outright bans. As of April 2026, the bill is in the House Rules Committee.

Can I keep chickens in unincorporated Will County near Joliet?

Possibly. Unincorporated areas follow county zoning rather than city ordinance, and agricultural zones are generally more permissive. Contact the Will County Land Use Department at (815) 740-8140.