225 ILCS 605/1
(225 ILCS 605/1) (from Ch. 8, par. 301) Sec. 1. This Act shall be known and may be cited as the Animal Welfare Act. (Source: P.A. 78-900.)
225 ILCS 605
225 ILCS 605
in effect225 ILCS 605/2 Definitions
(225 ILCS 605/2) (from Ch. 8, par. 302) Sec. 2. Definitions. As used in this Act unless the context otherwise requires: "Department" means the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "Director" means the Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "Pet shop operator" means any person who sells, offers to sell, exchange, or offers for adoption with or without charge or donation dogs, cats, birds, fish, reptiles, or other animals customarily obtained as pets in this State at retail to the public. However, a person who sells only such animals that he has produced and raised shall not be considered a pet shop operator under this Act, and a veterinary hospital or clinic operated by a veterinarian or veterinarians licensed under the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act of 2004 shall not be considered a pet shop operator under this Act. "Dog dealer" means any person who sells, offers to sell, exchange, or offers for adoption with or without charge or donation dogs in this State. However, a person who sells only dogs that he has produced and raised shall not be considered a dog dealer under this Act, and a veterinary hospital or clinic operated by a veterinarian or veterinarians licensed under the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act of 2004 shall not be considered a dog dealer under this Act. "Secretary of Agriculture" or "Secretary" means the Secretary of Agriculture of the United States Department of Agriculture. "Person" means any person, firm, corporation, partnership, association or other legal entity, any public or private institution, the State of Illinois, or any municipal corporation or political subdivision of the State. "Kennel operator" means any person who operates an establishment, other than an animal control facility, veterinary hospital, or animal shelter, where dogs or dogs and cats are maintained for boarding, training or similar purposes for a fee or compensation. "Boarding" means a time frame greater than 12 hours or an overnight period during which an animal is kept by a kennel operator. "Cat breeder" means a person who sells, offers to sell, exchanges, or offers for adoption with or without charge cats that he or she has produced and raised. A person who owns, has possession of, or harbors 5 or less females capable of reproduction shall not be considered a cat breeder. "Dog breeder" means a person who sells, offers to sell, exchanges, or offers for adoption with or without charge dogs that he has produced and raised. A person who owns, has possession of, or harbors 5 or less females capable of reproduction shall not be considered a dog breeder. "Animal control facility" means any facility operated by or under contract for the State, county, or any municipal corporation or political subdivision of the State for the purpose of impounding or harboring seized, stray, homeless, abandoned or unwanted dogs, cats, and other animals. "Animal control facility" also means any veterinary hospital or clinic operated by a veterinarian or veterinarians licensed under the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act of 2004 which operates for the above mentioned purpose in addition to its customary purposes. "Animal shelter" means a facility operated, owned, or maintained by a duly incorporated humane society, animal welfare society, or other non-profit organization having tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code for the purpose of providing for and promoting the welfare, protection, and humane treatment of animals. An organization that does not have its own building that maintains animals solely in foster homes or other licensees is an "animal shelter" for purposes of this Act. "Animal shelter" also means any veterinary hospital or clinic operated by a veterinarian or veterinarians licensed under the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Practice Act of 2004 which operates for the above mentioned purpose in addition to its customary purposes. "Day care operator" means a person who operates an establishment, other than an animal control facility, veterinary hospital, or animal shelter, where dogs or dogs and cats are kept for a period of time not exceeding 12 hours. "Foster home" means an entity that accepts the responsibility for stewardship of animals that are the obligation of an animal shelter or animal control facility, not to exceed 4 foster animals or 2 litters under 8 weeks of age at any given time. A written agreement to operate as a "foster home" shall be contracted with the animal shelter or animal control facility. "Guard dog service" means an entity that, for a fee, furnishes or leases guard or sentry dogs for the protection of life or property. A person is not a guard dog service solely because he or she owns a dog and uses it to guard his or her home, business, or farmland. "Guard dog" means a type of dog used primarily for the purpose of defending, patrolling, or protecting property or life at a commercial establishment other than a farm. "Guard dog" does not include stock dogs used primarily for handling and controlling livestock or farm animals, nor does it include personally owned pets that also provide security. "Return" in return to field or trap, neuter, return program means to return the cat to field after it has been sterilized and vaccinated for rabies. "Sentry dog" means a dog trained to work without supervision in a fenced facility other than a farm, and to deter or detain unauthorized persons found within the facility. "Probationary status" means the 12-month period following a series of violations of this Act during which any further violation shall result in an automatic 12-month suspension of licensure. "Owner" means any person having a right of property in an animal, who keeps or harbors an animal, who has an animal in his or her care or acts as its custodian, or who knowingly permits a dog to remain on any premises occupied by him or her. "Owner" does not include a feral cat caretaker participating in a trap, spay/neuter, vaccinate for rabies, and return program. "Offer for sale" means to sell, exchange for consideration, offer for adoption, advertise for the sale of, barter, auction, give away, or otherwise dispose of animals. (Source: P.A. 101-81, eff. 7-12-19; 101-295, eff. 8-9-19; 102-586, eff. 2-23-22.)
225 ILCS 605/2.1
(225 ILCS 605/2.1) (from Ch. 8, par. 302.1) Sec. 2.1. The Department may cooperate with the Secretary of Agriculture in carrying out Public Law 89-544, entitled, "An Act to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to regulate the transportation, sale, and handling of dogs, cats, and certain other animals intended to be used for purposes of research or experimentation, and for other purposes", and the rules and regulations issued by the Secretary under that Act. The Director may promulgate regulations to facilitate the cooperation, and to avoid any unnecessary duplication or any conflict of activities by the Department and the Secretary in regulating the activities or areas covered by this Act and Public Law 89-544. The regulations may be in addition to other regulations authorized by this Act. (Source: Laws 1967, p. 3079.)
225 ILCS 605/2.2
(225 ILCS 605/2.2) (from Ch. 8, par. 302.2) Sec. 2.2. No dog dealer, dog breeder, or cat breeder shall separate a puppy or kitten from its mother, for the purpose of sale, until such puppy or kitten has attained the age of 8 weeks. All licensees under this Act shall maintain records of the origin and sale of all dogs, and such records shall be made available for inspection by the Secretary or the Department upon demand. Such records must contain proof in proper form of purebreds and their pedigree, and evidence of such proof must be provided to any person acquiring a dog from a licensee under this Act. In addition, guard dog services shall be required to maintain records of transfer of ownership, death, or disappearance of a guard dog or sentry dog used by that guard dog service. (Source: P.A. 100-842, eff. 1-1-19.)
225 ILCS 605/3
(225 ILCS 605/3) (from Ch. 8, par. 303) Sec. 3. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Section, no person shall engage in business as a pet shop operator, dog dealer, kennel operator, day care operator, dog breeder, or cat breeder or operate a guard dog service, an animal control facility, or animal shelter, in this State without a license therefor issued by the Department. If one business conducts more than one such operation, each operation shall be licensed separately. Guard dog services that are located outside this State but provide services within this State are required to obtain a license from the Department. Out-of-state guard dog services are required to comply with the requirements of this Act with regard to guard dogs and sentry dogs transported to or used within this State. (b) This Act does not apply to a private detective agency or private security agency licensed under the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004 that provides guard dog or canine odor detection services and does not otherwise operate a kennel for hire. (Source: P.A. 100-842, eff. 1-1-19; 101-295, eff. 8-9-19.)
225 ILCS 605/3.1
(225 ILCS 605/3.1) (from Ch. 8, par. 303.1) Sec. 3.1. Information on dogs and cats for sale by a dog dealer, dog breeder, or cat breeder. Every dog dealer, dog breeder, and cat breeder shall provide the following information for every dog or cat available for sale: (a) The age, sex, and weight of the animal. (b) The breed of the animal. (c) A record of vaccinations and veterinary care and treatment. (d) A record of surgical sterilization or lack of surgical sterilization. (e) The name and address of the breeder of the animal. (f) The name and address of any other person who owned or harbored the animal between its birth and the point of sale. (g) Documentation that indicates that the dog or cat has been microchipped and the microchip has been enrolled in a nationally searchable database. (Source: P.A. 100-322, eff. 8-24-17; 100-842, eff. 1-1-19.)
225 ILCS 605/3.2
(225 ILCS 605/3.2) Sec. 3.2. Foster homes. A person shall not operate a foster home without affiliating by formal written agreement with an animal shelter or animal control facility for which that person will operate the foster home. The written agreement shall include a clause allowing for the Department to inspect the foster home. The animal shelter or animal control facility shall be responsible for the records and have the obligation of stewardship for animals in the foster home with which it affiliates. Foster homes shall provide the care for animals required by this Act and shall report any deviation that might affect its adherence to its written agreement with the affiliating animal shelter or animal control facility. If the subject of a complaint, a foster home may be inspected by the Department under the Department's licensing authority relative to the affiliating animal shelter or animal control facility. Refusal of the Department's inspection may result in revocation of the license. A foster home shall not care for more than 4 foster animals or more than 2 litters under 8 weeks of age at any one time. (Source: P.A. 100-870, eff. 1-1-19; 101-295, eff. 8-9-19.)
225 ILCS 605/3.3
(225 ILCS 605/3.3) (Text of Section before amendment by P.A. 104-643) Sec. 3.3. Adoption of dogs and cats. (a) An animal shelter or animal control facility shall not adopt out any dog or adopt out or return to field any cat unless it has been sterilized and microchipped. However, an animal shelter or animal control facility may adopt out a dog or cat that has not been sterilized and microchipped if the adopting owner has executed a written agreement to have sterilizing and microchipping procedures performed within 14 days after a licensed veterinarian certifies the dog or cat is healthy enough for sterilizing and microchipping procedures and a licensed veterinarian has certified that the dog or cat is too sick or injured to be sterilized or it would be detrimental to the health of the dog or cat to be sterilized or microchipped at the time of the adoption. (b) An animal shelter or animal control facility may adopt out any dog or cat that is not free of disease, injury, or abnormality if the disease, injury, or abnormality is disclosed in writing to the adopter, and the animal shelter or animal control facility allows the adopter to return the animal to the animal shelter or animal control facility. (c) The requirements of subsections (a) and (b) of this Section do not apply to adoptions subject to Section 11 of the Animal Control Act. (d) An animal shelter or animal control facility may waive the adoption fee for a dog or cat if the person adopting the dog or cat: (1) presents to the animal shelter or animal control facility a current and valid Illinois driver's license with the word "veteran" printed on its face, a current and valid Illinois Identification Card with the word "veteran" printed on its face, or an identification card issued under the federal Veterans Identification Card Act of 2015 and a valid Illinois driver's license or valid Illinois Identification Card; and (2) complies with the adoption policies of the animal shelter or animal control facility. (e) An animal shelter or animal control facility may limit the number of dogs or cats adopted from that animal shelter or animal control facility pursuant to this Section to one dog or cat each in a 2-year period. (Source: P.A. 102-558, eff. 8-20-21; 103-434, eff. 1-1-24; 103-678, eff. 1-1-25.) (Text of Section after amendment by P.A. 104-643) Sec. 3.3. Adoption of dogs and cats. (a) An animal shelter or animal control facility shall not adopt out any dog or adopt out or return to field any cat unless it has been sterilized and microchipped. The animal shelter or animal control facility shall register the microchip in a national database with the adoptive owner's information at the time of adoption. The animal shelter or animal control facility shall retain documentation of the microchip and registration, which shall be searchable by microchip number. However, an animal shelter or animal control facility may adopt out a dog or cat that has not been sterilized and microchipped if the adopting owner has executed a written agreement to have sterilizing and microchipping procedures performed within 14 days after a licensed veterinarian certifies the dog or cat is healthy enough for sterilizing and microchipping procedures and a licensed veterinarian has certified that the dog or cat is too sick or injured to be sterilized or it would be detrimental to the health of the dog or cat to be sterilized or microchipped at the time of the adoption. (b) An animal shelter or animal control facility may adopt out any dog or cat that is not free of disease, injury, or abnormality if the disease, injury, or abnormality is disclosed in writing to the adopter, and the animal shelter or animal control facility allows the adopter to return the animal to the animal shelter or animal control facility. (c) The requirements of subsections (a) and (b) of this Section do not apply to adoptions subject to Section 11 of the Animal Control Act. (d) An animal shelter or animal control facility may waive the adoption fee for a dog or cat if the person adopting the dog or cat: (1) presents to the animal shelter or animal control facility a current and valid Illinois driver's license with the word "veteran" printed on its face, a current and valid Illinois Identification Card with the word "veteran" printed on its face, or an identification card issued under the federal Veterans Identification Card Act of 2015 and a valid Illinois driver's license or valid Illinois Identification Card; and (2) complies with the adoption policies of the animal shelter or animal control facility. (e) An animal shelter or animal control facility may limit the number of dogs or cats adopted from that animal shelter or animal control facility pursuant to this Section to one dog or cat each in a 2-year period. (f) If, at any time after adoption, the adopted animal comes into the possession of an animal control agency, a law enforcement agency, another animal shelter, or a veterinarian and the agency, shelter, or veterinarian requests information pertaining to the identity and whereabouts of the animal's adopter or the history of the animal, the adopting agency shall, within one business day, provide that information to the requesting agency, shelter, or veterinarian. (Source: P.A. 103-434, eff. 1-1-24; 103-678, eff. 1-1-25; 104-643, eff. 1-1-27.)
225 ILCS 605/3.4
(225 ILCS 605/3.4) Sec. 3.4. Transfer of animals between shelters. An animal shelter or animal control facility may not release any animal to an individual representing an animal shelter or animal control facility, unless (1) the recipient animal shelter or animal control facility has been licensed or has a foster care permit issued by the Department or (2) the individual is a representative of a not-for-profit, out-of-State organization or out-of-State animal control facility or animal shelter who is transferring the animal out of the State of Illinois. (Source: P.A. 99-310, eff. 1-1-16; 100-870, eff. 1-1-19.)
225 ILCS 605/3.5
(225 ILCS 605/3.5) (Text of Section before amendment by P.A. 104-643) Sec. 3.5. Information on dogs and cats available for adoption by an animal shelter or animal control facility. (a) An animal shelter or animal control facility must provide to the adopter prior to the time of adoption the following information, to the best of its knowledge, on any dog or cat being offered for adoption: (1) The breed, age, date of birth, sex, and color of the dog or cat if known, or if unknown, the animal shelter or animal control facility shall estimate to the best of its ability. (2) The details of any inoculation or medical treatment that the dog or cat received while under the possession of the animal shelter or animal control facility. (3) The adoption fee and any additional fees or charges. (4) If the dog or cat was returned by an adopter, then the date and reason for the return. (5) The following written statement: "A copy of our policy regarding warranties, refunds, or returns is available upon request.". (6) The license number of the animal shelter or animal control facility issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture. (b) The information required in subsection (a) shall be provided to the adopter in written form by the animal shelter or animal control facility and shall have an acknowledgement of disclosures form, which must be signed by the adopter and an authorized representative of the animal shelter or animal control facility at the time of the adoption. The acknowledgement of disclosures form shall include the following: (1) A blank space for the dated signature and printed name of the authorized representative handling the adoption on behalf of the animal shelter or animal control facility, which shall be immediately beneath the following printed statement: "I hereby attest that all of the above information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.". (2) A blank space for the dated signature and printed name of the adopter, which shall be immediately beneath the following statement: "I hereby attest that this disclosure was posted on or near the cage of the dog or cat for adoption and that I have read all the disclosures. I further understand that I am entitled to keep a signed copy of this disclosure.". (c) A copy of the disclosures and the signed acknowledgement of disclosures form shall be provided to the adopter and the original copy shall be maintained by the animal shelter or animal control facility for a period of 2 years from the date of adoption. A copy of the animal shelter's or animal control facility's policy regarding warranties, refunds, or returns shall be provided to the adopter. (d) An animal shelter or animal control facility shall post in a conspicuous place in writing on or near the cage of any dog or cat available for adoption the information required by subsection (a) of this Section 3.5. (Source: P.A. 96-1470, eff. 1-1-11.) (Text of Section after amendment by P.A. 104-643) Sec. 3.5. Information on dogs and cats available for adoption by an animal shelter or animal control facility. (a) An animal shelter or animal control facility must provide to the adopter prior to the time of adoption the following information, to the best of its knowledge, on any dog or cat being offered for adoption: (1) The breed, age, date of birth, sex, and color of the dog or cat if known, or if unknown, the animal shelter or animal control facility shall estimate to the best of its ability. (2) The details of any inoculation or medical treatment that the dog or cat received while under the possession of the animal shelter or animal control facility. (3) The adoption fee and any additional fees or charges. (4) If the dog or cat was returned by an adopter, then the date and reason for the return. (5) Any behavior noted during interactions with the dog, including intake, walks, playgroups, socialization sessions, medical examinations, and other assessments. (6) Information describing whether the dog has killed a companion animal or livestock or has been deemed a dangerous dog under Section 15.1 of the Animal Control Act and any restrictions that may apply to the dog, if known. (7) Information describing whether the dog or cat has bitten any person at the facility or prior to admission. (8) The following written statement: "A copy of our policy regarding warranties, refunds, or returns is available upon request.". (9) The license number of the animal shelter or animal control facility issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture. (b) The information required in subsection (a) shall be provided to the adopter in written form by the animal shelter or animal control facility and shall have an acknowledgement of disclosures form, which must be signed by the adopter and an authorized representative of the animal shelter or animal control facility at the time of the adoption. The acknowledgement of disclosures form shall include the following: (1) A blank space for the dated signature and printed name of the authorized representative handling the adoption on behalf of the animal shelter or animal control facility, which shall be immediately beneath the following printed statement: "I hereby attest that all of the above information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.". (2) A blank space for the dated signature and printed name of the adopter, which shall be immediately beneath the following statement: "I hereby attest that this disclosure regarding the dog or cat for adoption was presented to me and that I have read all the disclosures. I further understand that I am entitled to keep a signed copy of this disclosure.". (c) A copy of the disclosures and the signed acknowledgement of disclosures form shall be provided to the adopter and the original copy shall be maintained by the animal shelter or animal control facility for a period of 2 years from the date of adoption. A copy of the animal shelter's or animal control facility's policy regarding warranties, refunds, or returns shall be provided to the adopter. (d) An animal shelter or animal control facility is prohibited from offering for adoption or transfer, giving away, rehoming, or placing any dog determined to be a vicious dog under Section 15 of the Animal Control Act. (Source: P.A. 104-643, eff. 1-1-27.)
225 ILCS 605/3.6
(225 ILCS 605/3.6) Sec. 3.6. Acceptance of stray dogs and cats. (a) No animal shelter may accept a stray dog or cat unless the animal is reported by the shelter to the animal control or law enforcement of the county in which the animal is found by the next business day. An animal shelter may accept animals from: (1) the owner of the animal where the owner signs a relinquishment form which states he or she is the owner of the animal; (2) an animal shelter licensed under this Act; or (3) an out-of-state animal control facility, rescue group, or animal shelter that is duly licensed in their state or is a not-for-profit organization. (b) When stray dogs and cats are accepted by an animal shelter, they must be scanned for the presence of a microchip and examined for other currently-acceptable methods of identification, including, but not limited to, identification tags, tattoos, and rabies license tags. The examination for identification shall be done within 24 hours after the intake of each dog or cat. The animal shelter shall notify the owner and transfer any dog with an identified owner to the animal control or law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction in which it was found or the local animal control agency for redemption. (c) If no transfer can occur, the animal shelter shall make every reasonable attempt to contact the owner, agent, or caretaker as soon as possible. The animal shelter shall give notice of not less than 7 business days to the owner, agent, or caretaker prior to disposal of the animal. The notice shall be mailed to the last known address of the owner, agent, or caretaker. Testimony of the animal shelter, or its authorized agent, who mails the notice shall be evidence of the receipt of the notice by the owner, agent, or caretaker of the animal. A mailed notice shall remain the primary means of owner, agent, or caretaker contact; however, the animal shelter shall also attempt to contact the owner, agent, or caretaker by any other contact information, such as by telephone or email address, provided by the microchip or other method of identification found on the dog or cat. If the dog or cat has been microchipped and the primary contact listed by the chip manufacturer cannot be located or refuses to reclaim the dog or cat, an attempt shall be made to contact any secondary contacts listed by the chip manufacturer or the purchaser of the microchip if the purchaser is a nonprofit organization, animal shelter, animal control facility, pet store, breeder, or veterinary office prior to adoption, transfer, or euthanization. Prior to transferring any stray dog or cat to another humane shelter, pet store, rescue group, or euthanization, the dog or cat shall be scanned again for the presence of a microchip and examined for other means of identification. If a second scan provides the same identifying information as the initial intake scan and the owner, agent, or caretaker has not been located or refuses to reclaim the dog or cat, the animal shelter may proceed with adoption, transfer, or euthanization. (d) When stray dogs and cats are accepted by an animal shelter and no owner can be identified, the shelter shall hold the animal for the period specified in local ordinance prior to adoption, transfer, or euthanasia. The animal shelter shall allow access to the public to view the animals housed there. If a dog is identified by an owner who desires to make redemption of it, the dog shall be transferred to the local animal control for redemption. If no transfer can occur, the animal shelter shall proceed pursuant to Section 3.7. Upon lapse of the hold period specified in local ordinance and no owner can be identified, ownership of the animal, by operation of law, transfers to the shelter that has custody of the animal. (e) No representative of an animal shelter may enter private property and remove an animal without permission from the property owner and animal owner, nor can any representative of an animal shelter direct another individual to enter private property and remove an animal unless that individual is an approved humane investigator (approved by the Department) operating pursuant to the provisions of the Humane Care for Animals Act. (f) Nothing in this Section limits an animal shelter and an animal control facility who, through mutual agreement, wish to enter into an agreement for animal control, boarding, holding, measures to improve life-saving, or other services provided that the agreement requires parties adhere to the provisions of the Animal Control Act, the Humane Euthanasia in Animal Shelters Act, and the Humane Care for Animals Act. (Source: P.A. 99-310, eff. 1-1-16; 100-322, eff. 8-24-17; 100-870, eff. 1-1-19.)
225 ILCS 605/3.7
(225 ILCS 605/3.7) Sec. 3.7. Redemption of stray dogs and cats from animal shelters. Any owner, agent, or caretaker wishing to make redemption of a dog or cat held by a shelter under the provisions of subsection (c) of Section 3.6 of this Act may do so by doing the following: (1) paying the shelter for the board of the dog or cat for the period the shelter was in possession of the animal; the daily boarding rate shall not exceed the daily boarding rate of the animal control agency in the jurisdiction in which the shelter is located; and (2) paying the shelter for reasonable costs of veterinary care, if applicable. The shelter has the option to waive any fees or veterinary costs. (Source: P.A. 99-310, eff. 1-1-16.)
225 ILCS 605/3.8
(225 ILCS 605/3.8) Sec. 3.8. Prohibition of dogs and cats sold by pet shops; recordkeeping. (a) A pet shop operator may offer for sale a dog or cat only if the dog or cat is obtained from an animal control facility or animal shelter, located in-state or out-of-state, that is in compliance with Section 3.9. (b) A pet shop operator shall keep a record of each dog or cat offered for sale. The record must be kept on file for a period of 2 years following the acquisition of each dog or cat, made available to the Department upon request, and submitted to the Department on May 1 and November 1 of each year. The record shall include the following: (1) name, address, and phone number of the animal control facility or animal shelter each dog or cat was obtained from; and (2) documentation from the animal control facility or animal shelter each dog or cat was obtained from demonstrating compliance with Section 3.9, including the circumstances that led to the animal control facility or animal shelter obtaining ownership of the dog or cat and any other information indicating the dog or cat was not obtained from a source prohibited in Section 3.9. (c) In addition to the penalties set forth in Section 20.5, a pet shop operator that violates subsection (a) shall no longer offer for sale a dog or cat regardless of where the dog or cat was obtained. (d) Nothing in this Section prohibits a pet shop operator from providing space to an animal control facility or animal shelter to showcase dogs or cats owned by these entities for the purpose of adoption. (Source: P.A. 102-586, eff. 2-23-22.)
225 ILCS 605/3.9
(225 ILCS 605/3.9) Sec. 3.9. Animal control facilities and animal shelters supplying to pet shop operators. (a) An animal control facility or animal shelter that supplies dogs or cats to pet shop operators to be offered for sale shall not be a dog breeder or a cat breeder or obtain dogs or cats from a dog breeder, a cat breeder, a person who resells dogs or cats from a breeder, or a person who sells dogs or cats at auction in exchange for payment or compensation. (b) An animal control facility or animal shelter that supplies dogs or cats to pet shops to be offered for sale shall provide pet shops with documentation demonstrating compliance with this Section, including a description of the ownership history of each dog or cat supplied, if known, the circumstances that led to ownership of the dog or cat, and any other information indicating the dog or cat was not obtained from a source prohibited in this Section. (Source: P.A. 102-586, eff. 2-23-22.)
225 ILCS 605/3.15
(225 ILCS 605/3.15) Sec. 3.15. Disclosures for dogs and cats being sold by pet shops. (a) Prior to the time of sale, every pet shop operator must, to the best of his or her knowledge, provide to the consumer the following information on any dog or cat being offered for sale: (1) The retail price of the dog or cat, including any additional fees or charges. (2) The breed or breeds, if known, age, date of birth, sex, and color of the dog or cat. (3) The date and description of any inoculation or medical treatment that the dog or cat received while under the possession of the pet shop operator, and any inoculation or medical treatment that the dog or cat received while under the possession of the animal control facility or animal shelter that the pet shop operator is aware of. (4) Sourcing information required in subsection (b) of Section 3.8. (5) (Blank). (6) (Blank). (7) If the dog or cat was returned by a customer, then the date and reason for the return. (8) A copy of the pet shop's policy regarding warranties, refunds, or returns and an explanation of the remedy under subsections (f) through (m) of this Section in addition to any other remedies available at law. (9) The pet shop operator's license number issued by the Illinois Department of Agriculture. (10) Disclosure that the dog or cat has been microchipped and the microchip has been enrolled in a nationally searchable database. Pet stores must also disclose that the purchaser has the option to list the pet store as a secondary contact on the microchip. (a-5) All dogs and cats shall be microchipped by a pet shop operator prior to sale. (b) The information required in subsection (a) shall be provided to the customer in written form by the pet shop operator and shall have an acknowledgment of disclosures form, which must be signed by the customer and the pet shop operator at the time of sale. The acknowledgment of disclosures form shall include the following: (1) A blank space for the dated signature and printed name of the pet shop operator, which shall be immediately beneath the following statement: "I hereby attest that all of the above information is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.". (2) A blank space for the customer to sign and print his or her name and the date, which shall be immediately beneath the following statement: "I hereby attest that this disclosure was posted on or near the cage of the dog or cat for sale and that I have read all of the disclosures. I further understand that I am entitled to keep a signed copy of this disclosure.". (c) A copy of the disclosures and the signed acknowledgment of disclosures form shall be provided to the customer at the time of sale and the original copy shall be maintained by the pet shop operator for a period of 2 years from the date of sale. A copy of the pet store operator's policy regarding warranties, refunds, or returns shall be provided to the customer. (d) A pet shop operator shall post in writing on the cage of any dog or cat available for sale the information required by subsection (a) of this Section 3.15. (e) If there is an outbreak of distemper, parvovirus, or any other contagious and potentially life-threatening disease, the pet shop operator shall notify the Department immediately upon becoming aware of the disease. If the Department issues a quarantine, the pet shop operator shall notify, in writing and within 2 business days of the quarantine, each customer who purchased a dog or cat during the 2-week period prior to the outbreak and quarantine. (f) A customer who purchased a dog or cat from a pet shop is entitled to a remedy under this Section if: (1) within 21 days after the date of sale, a licensed veterinarian states in writing that at the time of sale (A) the dog or cat was unfit for purchase due to illness or disease, the presence of symptoms of a contagious or infectious disease, or obvious signs of severe parasitism that are extreme enough to influence the general health of the animal, excluding fleas or ticks, or (B) the dog or cat has died from a disease that existed in the dog or cat on or before the date of delivery to the customer; or (2) within one year after the date of sale, a licensed veterinarian states in writing that the dog or cat possesses a congenital or hereditary condition that adversely affects the health of the dog or cat or requires either hospitalization or a non-elective surgical procedure or has died of a congenital or hereditary condition. Internal or external parasites may not be considered to adversely affect the health of the dog unless the presence of the parasites makes the dog or cat clinically ill. The veterinarian's statement shall include: (A) the customer's name and address; (B) a statement that the veterinarian examined the dog or cat; (C) the date or dates that the dog or cat was examined; (D) the breed and age of the dog or cat, if known; (E) a statement that the dog or cat has or had a disease, illness, or congenital or hereditary condition that is subject to remedy; and (F) the findings of the examination or necropsy, including any lab results or copies of the results. (g) A customer entitled to a remedy under subsection (f) of this Section may: (1) return the dog or cat to the pet shop for a full refund of the purchase price; (2) exchange the dog or cat for another dog or cat of comparable value chosen by the customer; (3) retain the dog or cat and be reimbursed for reasonable veterinary fees for diagnosis and treatment of the dog or cat, not to exceed the purchase price of the dog or cat; or (4) if the dog or cat is deceased, be reimbursed for the full purchase price of the dog or cat plus reasonable veterinary fees associated with the diagnosis and treatment of the dog or cat, not to exceed one times the purchase price of the dog or cat. For the purposes of this subsection (g), veterinary fees shall be considered reasonable if (i) the services provided are appropriate for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, illness, or congenital or hereditary condition and (ii) the cost of the services is comparable to that charged for similar services by other licensed veterinarians located in close proximity to the treating veterinarian. (h) Unless the pet shop contests a reimbursement required under subsection (g) of this Section, the reimbursement shall be made to the customer no later than 10 business days after the pet shop operator receives the veterinarian's statement under subsection (f) of this Section. (i) To obtain a remedy under this Section, a customer shall: (1) notify the pet shop as soon as reasonably possible and not to exceed 3 business days after a diagnosis by a licensed veterinarian of a disease, illness, or congenital or hereditary condition of the dog or cat for which the customer is seeking a remedy; (2) provide to the pet shop a written statement provided for under subsection (f) of this Section by a licensed veterinarian within 5 business days after a diagnosis by the veterinarian; (3) upon request of the pet shop, take the dog or cat for an examination by a second licensed veterinarian; the customer may either choose the second licensed veterinarian or allow the pet shop to choose the second veterinarian, if the pet shop agrees to do so. The party choosing the second veterinarian shall assume the cost of the resulting examination; and (4) if the customer requests a reimbursement of veterinary fees, provide to the pet shop an itemized bill for the disease, illness, or congenital or hereditary condition of the dog or cat for which the customer is seeking a remedy. (j) A customer is not entitled to a remedy under this Section if: (1) the illness or death resulted from: (A) maltreatment or neglect by the customer; (B) an injury sustained after the delivery of the dog or cat to the customer; or (C) an illness or disease contracted after the delivery of the dog or cat to the customer; (2) the customer does not carry out the recommended treatment prescribed by the veterinarian who made the diagnosis; or (3) the customer does not return to the pet shop all documents provided to register the dog or cat, unless the documents have already been sent to the registry organization. (k) A pet shop may contest a remedy under this Section by having the dog or cat examined by a second licensed veterinarian pursuant to paragraph (3) of subsection (i) of this Section if the dog or cat is still living. If the dog or cat is deceased, the pet shop may choose to have the second veterinarian review any records provided by the veterinarian who examined or treated the dog or cat for the customer before its death. If the customer and the pet shop have not reached an agreement within 10 business days after the examination of the medical records and the dog or cat, if alive, or the dog's or cat's medical records, if deceased, by the second veterinarian, then: (1) the customer may bring suit in a court of competent jurisdiction to resolve the dispute; or (2) if the customer and the pet shop agree in writing, the parties may submit the dispute to binding arbitration. If the court or arbiter finds that either party acted in bad faith in seeking or denying the requested remedy, then the offending party may be required to pay reasonable attorney's fees and court costs of the adverse party. (l) This Section shall not apply to any adoption of dogs or cats, including those in which a pet shop or other organization rents or donates space to facilitate the adoption. (m) If a pet shop offers its own warranty on a pet, a customer may choose to waive the remedies provided under subsection (f) of this Section in favor of choosing the warranty provided by the pet shop. If a customer waives the rights provided by subsection (f), the only remedies available to the customer are those provided by the pet shop's warranty. For the statement to be an effective waiver of the customer's right to refund or exchange the animal under subsection (f), the pet shop must provide, in writing, a statement of the remedy under subsection (f) that the customer is waiving as well as a written copy of the pet shop's warranty. For the statement to be an effective waiver of the customer's right to refund or exchange the animal under subsection (f), it shall be substantially similar to the following language: "I have agreed to accept the warranty provided by the pet shop in lieu of the remedies under subsection (f) of Section 3.15 of the Animal Welfare Act. I have received a copy of the pet shop's warranty and a statement of the remedies provided under subsection (f) of Section 3.15 of the Animal Welfare Act. This is a waiver pursuant to subsection (m) of Section 3.15 of the Animal Welfare Act whereby I, the customer, relinquish any and all right to return the animal for congenital and hereditary disorders provided by subsection (f) of Section 3.15 of the Animal Welfare Act. I agree that my exclusive remedy is the warranty provided by the pet shop at the time of sale.". (Source: P.A. 104-852, eff. 8-21-26.)
225 ILCS 605/4
(225 ILCS 605/4) Sec. 4. Applicant convictions. (a) The Department shall not require applicants to report the following information and shall not consider the following in connection with an application for a license under this Act: (1) Juvenile adjudications of delinquent minors as defined in Section 5-105 of the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 5-130 of the Juvenile Court Act of 1987. (2) Law enforcement records, court records, and conviction records of an individual who was 17 years old at the time of the offense and before January 1, 2014, unless the nature of the offense required the individual to be tried as an adult. (3) Records of arrest not followed by a conviction. (4) Convictions overturned by a higher court. (5) Convictions or arrests that have been sealed or expunged. (b) The Department, upon a finding that an applicant for a license was previously convicted of any felony or a misdemeanor directly related to the practice of the profession, shall consider any evidence of rehabilitation and mitigating factors contained in the applicant's record, including any of the following factors and evidence, to determine if the conviction will impair the ability of the applicant to engage in the position for which a license is sought: (1) the lack of direct relation of the offense for which the applicant was previously convicted to the duties, functions, and responsibilities of the position for which a license is sought; (2) whether 5 years since a felony conviction or 3 years since release from confinement for the conviction, whichever is later, have passed without a subsequent conviction; (3) if the applicant was previously licensed or employed in this State or other states or jurisdictions, then the lack of prior misconduct arising from or related to the licensed position or position of employment; (4) the age of the person at the time of the criminal offense; (5) successful completion of sentence and, for applicants serving a term of parole or probation, a progress report provided by the applicant's probation or parole officer that documents the applicant's compliance with conditions of supervision; (6) evidence of the applicant's present fitness and professional character; (7) evidence of rehabilitation or rehabilitative effort during or after incarceration, or during or after a term of supervision, including, but not limited to, a certificate of good conduct under Section 5-5.5-25 of the Unified Code of Corrections or a certificate of relief from disabilities under Section 5-5.5-10 of the Unified Code of Corrections; and (8) any other mitigating factors that contribute to the person's potential and current ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position for which a license or employment is sought. (c) If the Department refuses to grant a license to an applicant, then the Department shall notify the applicant of the denial in writing with the following included in the notice of denial: (1) a statement about the decision to refuse to issue a license; (2) a list of the convictions that the Department determined will impair the applicant's ability to engage in the position for which a license is sought; (3) a list of convictions that formed the sole or partial basis for the refusal to issue a license; and (4) a summary of the appeal process or the earliest the applicant may reapply for a license, whichever is applicable. (d) No later than May 1 of each year, the Department must prepare, publicly announce, and publish a report of summary statistical information relating to new and renewal license applications during the preceding calendar year. Each report shall show, at a minimum: (1) the number of applicants for a new or renewal license under this Act within the previous calendar year; (2) the number of applicants for a new or renewal license under this Act within the previous calendar year who had any criminal conviction; (3) the number of applicants for a new or renewal license under this Act in the previous calendar year who were granted a license; (4) the number of applicants for a new or renewal license with a criminal conviction who were granted a license under this Act within the previous calendar year; (5) the number of applicants for a new or renewal license under this Act within the previous calendar year who were denied a license; (6) the number of applicants for a new or renewal license with a criminal conviction who were denied a license under this Act in the previous calendar year in whole or in part because of a prior conviction; (7) the number of licenses issued on probation without monitoring under this Act in the previous calendar year to applicants with convictions; and (8) the number of licenses issued on probation with monitoring under this Act in the previous calendar year to applicants with convictions. (Source: P.A. 100-286, eff. 1-1-18.)
225 ILCS 605/5
(225 ILCS 605/5) (from Ch. 8, par. 305) Sec. 5. Applications by individuals for original licenses shall be made to the Department, shall be in writing on forms prescribed by the Department and shall be accompanied by the required fee, which shall not be returnable. Any such application shall require such information as in the judgment of the Department will enable the Department to pass on the qualifications of the applicant for a license. It shall include, but need not be limited to information concerning age, citizenship, present residence, location of the business licensed under this Act, including the location of all foster homes, description of facilities to be used, present and previous business connections and experience, bank and professional references, whether any license of the applicant under this Act or any federal, state, county or local law, ordinance or regulation, relating to dealing in or handling dogs or cats, ever was suspended or revoked and whether the applicant ever has been convicted of a felony. Such felony conviction may be taken into consideration by the Department in determining qualifications for licensing but shall not operate as a bar to licensing. (Source: P.A. 89-178, eff. 7-19-95.)
225 ILCS 605/6
(225 ILCS 605/6) (from Ch. 8, par. 306) Sec. 6. Applications by partnerships or corporations for original licenses shall be made to the Department, shall be in writing on forms prescribed by the Department and shall be accompanied by the required fee, which shall not be returnable. Any such application shall list, but need not be limited to, the name of each partner, if a partnership, each director and officer, if a corporation, its address, its financial resources, and shall indicate and list the partners, directors or officers, as the case may be, or other persons authorized to represent or act for it under this Act. (Source: P.A. 81-198.)
225 ILCS 605/6.5
(225 ILCS 605/6.5) Sec. 6.5. Termination of application; forfeiture of license fee. Failure of any applicant to meet all of the requirements for compliance within 60 days of receipt of a license application shall result in termination of the application and forfeiture of the license fee. (Source: P.A. 90-385, eff. 8-15-97; 90-403, eff. 8-15-97.)
225 ILCS 605/7
(225 ILCS 605/7) (from Ch. 8, par. 307) Sec. 7. Applications for renewal licenses shall be made to the Department in a manner prescribed by the Department, shall contain such information as will enable the Department to determine if the applicant is qualified to continue to hold a license, shall report beginning inventory and intake and outcome statistics from the previous calendar year, and shall be accompanied by the required fee, which shall not be returnable. The report of intake and outcome statistics shall include the following: (1) The total number of dogs, cats, and other animals, divided into species, taken in by the animal shelter or animal control facility, in the following categories: (A) surrendered by owner; (B) stray; (C) impounded other than stray; (D) confiscated under the Humane Care for Animals Act; (E) transfer from other licensees within the State; (F) transferred into or imported from out of the State; (G) transferred into or imported from outside the country; and (H) born in shelter or animal control facility. (2) The disposition of all dogs, cats, and other animals taken in by the animal shelter or animal control facility, divided into species. This data must include dispositions by: (A) reclamation by owner; (B) adopted or sold; (C) euthanized; (D) euthanized per request of the owner; (E) died in custody; (F) transferred to another licensee; (G) transferred to an out-of-state nonprofit agency; (H) animals missing, stolen, or escaped; (I) cats returned to field; and (J) ending inventory; shelter count at end of the last day of the year. The Department shall not be required to audit or validate the intake and outcome statistics required to be submitted under this Section. (Source: P.A. 101-295, eff. 8-9-19; 102-558, eff. 8-20-21.)
225 ILCS 605/7.1
(225 ILCS 605/7.1) Sec. 7.1. Department reporting. The Department shall post on its website the name of each licensed animal control facility or animal shelter and all the reported intake and outcome statistics required under paragraphs (1) and (2) of Section 7 of this Act by December 31, 2020 and by December 31 of each year thereafter. (Source: P.A. 100-870, eff. 1-1-19.)
225 ILCS 605/8
(225 ILCS 605/8) (from Ch. 8, par. 308) Sec. 8. Each non-resident applicant for an original license or renewal license, except a foreign corporation, shall file with the Department an irrevocable consent that actions against the applicant may be filed in any appropriate court of any county or municipality of this State in which the plaintiff resides or in which some part of the transaction occurred out of which the alleged cause of action arose and that process in any action may be served on the applicant by leaving 2 copies thereof with the Director. Such consent shall stipulate and agree that such service of process shall be taken and held to be valid and binding for all purposes. The Director shall send forthwith one copy of such process to the applicant at the address shown on the records of the Department by registered mail. No foreign corporation shall receive a license under this Act until it has been authorized to do business in this State by the Secretary of State. (Source: Laws 1965, p. 2956.)
225 ILCS 605/9
(225 ILCS 605/9) (from Ch. 8, par. 309) Sec. 9. Each license shall be issued for the term of one fiscal year or for such part thereof as remains at the time of the issuance of the license. Each license shall be renewed during the month of June of each year. Each license not renewed during June of each year shall expire on June 30 of that year. A license must be prominently displayed at each place of business of the licensee. Where the licensee conducts business at more than one address, branch office licenses shall be issued on payment of the required fee. Each license shall be signed by the Director of the Department and shall be issued under the seal of the Department. (Source: P.A. 79-997.)
225 ILCS 605/10
(225 ILCS 605/10) (from Ch. 8, par. 310) Sec. 10. Grounds for discipline. The Department may refuse to issue or renew or may suspend or revoke a license on any one or more of the following grounds: a. material misstatement in the application for original license or in the application for any renewal license under this Act; b. a violation of this Act or of any regulations or rules issued pursuant thereto; c. aiding or abetting another in the violation of this Act or of any regulation or rule issued pursuant thereto; d. allowing one's license under this Act to be used by an unlicensed person; e. for licensees, conviction of any crime an essential element of which is misstatement, fraud or dishonesty or conviction of any felony, if the Department determines, after investigation, that such person has not been sufficiently rehabilitated to warrant the public trust; for applicants, the Department may refuse to issue a license based on a conviction of any felony or a misdemeanor directly related to the practice of the profession if the Department determines in accordance with Section 4 that such conviction will impair the ability of the applicant to engage in the position for which a license is sought; f. conviction of a violation of any law of Illinois except minor violations such as traffic violations and violations not related to the disposition of dogs, cats and other animals or any rule or regulation of the Department relating to dogs or cats and sale thereof; g. making substantial misrepresentations or false promises of a character likely to influence, persuade or induce in connection with the business of a licensee under this Act; h. pursuing a continued course of misrepresentation of or making false promises through advertising, salesman, agents or otherwise in connection with the business of a licensee under this Act; i. failure to possess the necessary qualifications or to meet the requirements of the Act for the issuance or holding a license; or j. proof that the licensee is guilty of gross negligence, incompetency, or cruelty with regard to animals. The Department may refuse to issue or may suspend the license of any person who fails to file a return, or to pay the tax, penalty or interest shown in a filed return, or to pay any final assessment of tax, penalty or interest, as required by any tax Act administered by the Illinois Department of Revenue, until such time as the requirements of any such tax Act are satisfied. The Department may order any licensee to cease operation for a period not to exceed 72 hours to correct deficiencies in order to meet licensing requirements. If the Department revokes a license under this Act at an administrative hearing, the licensee and any individuals associated with that license shall be prohibited from applying for or obtaining a license under this Act for a minimum of 3 years. (Source: P.A. 99-310, eff. 1-1-16; 100-286, eff. 1-1-18.)
225 ILCS 605/11
(225 ILCS 605/11) (from Ch. 8, par. 311) Sec. 11. The Department may upon its own motion and shall upon the verified complaint in writing of any person who has been the recipient of an animal through purchase, gift or adoption setting forth facts which if proved would constitute grounds for refusal to issue or renew or for suspension or revocation of a license under this Act, investigate the actions of any applicant or any person or persons holding or claiming to hold a license. The Department shall, before refusing to issue or renew, and before suspension or revocation of a license, at least 10 days prior to the date set for the hearing, notify in writing the applicant for or holder of a license, hereinafter called the respondent, that a hearing will be held on the date designated to determine whether the respondent is privileged to hold such license, and shall afford the respondent an opportunity to be heard in person or by counsel in reference hereto. Such written notice may be served by delivery of the same personally to the respondent, or by mailing the same by registered or certified mail to the place of business last theretofore specified by the respondent in the last notification to the Department. At the time and place fixed in the notice, the Department shall proceed to hear the charges and both the respondent and the complainant shall be accorded ample opportunity to present in person or by counsel such statements, testimony, evidence and argument as may be pertinent to the charges or to any defense thereto. The Department may continue such hearing from time to time. The Department, over the signature of the Director is authorized to subpoena and bring before the Department any person or persons in this State and to take testimony either orally or by deposition or by exhibit, with the same fees and mileage and in the same manner as prescribed by law in judicial proceedings in civil cases in circuit courts of this state. Any authorized agent of the Department may administer oaths to witnesses at any hearing which the Department is authorized by law to conduct. (Source: P.A. 83-338.)
225 ILCS 605/12
(225 ILCS 605/12) (from Ch. 8, par. 312) Sec. 12. Record of hearing. In accordance with Section 10-35 of the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act, the Department shall preserve a record of all proceedings at the hearing of any case involving refusal to issue or renew a license, or the suspension or revocation of a license, or the referral of a case for criminal prosecution. The record of any such proceeding consists of the notice of hearing, complaint, and all other documents in the nature of pleadings and written motions filed in the proceedings, the transcript of testimony and the report and orders of the Department. Copies of the transcript of the record may be obtained from the Department in accordance with the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. (Source: P.A. 91-357, eff. 7-29-99.)
225 ILCS 605/13
(225 ILCS 605/13) (from Ch. 8, par. 313) Sec. 13. In any case involving the refusal to issue or renew a license, or the suspension or revocation of a license, or the referral of a case for criminal prosecution, a copy of the Department's report shall be served upon the respondent, either personally or by registered or certified mail as provided in this Act, for the service of the notice of hearing. Within 20 days after such service, the respondent may present to the Department a motion in writing for a rehearing, which written motion shall specify the particular grounds therefor. If no motion for rehearing is filed, then upon the expiration of the time specified for filing such a motion, or if a motion for rehearing is denied, then upon such denial, the Director may enter an order in accordance with recommendations of the report. If the respondent orders and pays for a transcript of the record within the time for filing a motion for rehearing, the 20 day period within which such a motion may be filed shall commence upon the delivery of the transcript to the respondent. (Source: P.A. 81-198.)
225 ILCS 605/14
(225 ILCS 605/14) (from Ch. 8, par. 314) Sec. 14. Any circuit court may upon application of the Director or of the applicant or licensee against whom proceedings under Section 11 of this Act are pending, enter an order requiring the attendance of witnesses and their testimony, and the production of documents, papers, files, books and records in connection with any hearing in any proceedings under that Section. The court may compel obedience to its order by proceedings for contempt. (Source: Laws 1965, p. 2956.)
225 ILCS 605/15
(225 ILCS 605/15) (from Ch. 8, par. 315) Sec. 15. Any person affected by a final administrative decision of the Department may have such decision reviewed judicially by the circuit court of the county wherein such person resides, or in the case of a corporation, wherein the registered office is located. If the plaintiff in the review proceeding is not a resident of this state, the venue shall be in Sangamon County. The provisions of the Administrative Review Law, and all amendments and modifications thereof, and the rules adopted pursuant thereto, shall apply to and govern all proceedings for the judicial review of final administrative decisions of the Department hereunder. The term "administrative decision" is defined as in Section 3-101 of the Code of Civil Procedure. The Department shall not be required to certify the record of the proceeding unless the plaintiff in the review proceedings has purchased a copy from the certified shorthand reporter who prepared the record. Exhibits shall be certified without cost. (Source: P.A. 82-783.)
225 ILCS 605/16
(225 ILCS 605/16) (from Ch. 8, par. 316) Sec. 16. Upon the revocation or suspension of any license, the licensee shall forthwith surrender the license and any branch office licenses to the Department, and if the licensee fails to do so, the Department shall have the right to seize the same. (Source: Laws 1965, p. 2956.)
225 ILCS 605/18
(225 ILCS 605/18) (from Ch. 8, par. 318) Sec. 18. The licensee shall: (a) Maintain sanitary conditions. (b) Ensure proper ventilation. (c) Provide adequate nutrition. (d) Provide humane care and treatment of all animals under his jurisdiction. (e) Take reasonable care to release for sale, trade, or adoption only those animals which are free of disease, injuries, or abnormalities. A health certificate, meeting the requirements of the Department and issued by a licensed veterinarian for any such animal within 5 days before such sale, trade, or adoption, is prima facie evidence that the licensee has taken reasonable care, as required by this paragraph. Inspection of the premises of a licensee to determine compliance with this Act may be made only by the Department. (Source: P.A. 102-558, eff. 8-20-21.)
225 ILCS 605/18.1
(225 ILCS 605/18.1) Sec. 18.1. Sale or gift of reptiles and other animals. (a) A pet shop shall not sell a reptile, offer a reptile for sale, or offer a reptile as a gift or promotional consideration unless a notice regarding safe reptile-handling practices that meets the requirements in subsection (b) is (i) prominently displayed at each location in the pet shop where reptiles are displayed, housed, or held and (ii) distributed to the purchaser or recipient. (b) The notice regarding safe reptile-handling practices shall be one of the following: (1) a notice provided at no charge by the Illinois Department of Public Health; or (2) a notice that has the dimensions of at least 8.5 inches by 11 inches, that uses fonts that are clearly visible and readily draw attention to the notice, and that contains all of the following statements: (A) "As with many other animals, reptiles carry salmonella bacteria, which can make people sick. Safe reptile-handling steps should be taken to reduce the chance of infection." (B) "Always wash your hands thoroughly after you handle your pet reptile, its food, and anything it has touched." (C) "Keep your pet reptile and its equipment out of the kitchen or any area where food is prepared. Kitchen sinks should not be used to bathe reptiles or wash their dishes, cages, or aquariums. If a bathtub is used for these purposes, it should be cleaned thoroughly and disinfected with bleach." (D) "Don't nuzzle or kiss your pet reptile." (E) "Keep reptiles out of homes where there are children under 5 years of age or people with weakened immune systems. Children under 5 years of age or people with weakened immune systems should avoid contact with reptiles." (F) "Pet reptiles should not be allowed in child care centers." (G) "Pet reptiles should not be allowed to roam freely throughout the home or living area." (Source: P.A. 91-741, eff. 1-1-01.)
225 ILCS 605/18.2
(225 ILCS 605/18.2) Sec. 18.2. Fire alarm system. (a) In this Section: "Fire alarm system" means a system that automatically triggers notification to local emergency responders when activated. "Staffing plan" means a plan to staff a kennel operator anytime dogs or cats are on the premises. At a minimum, a staffing plan must include the kennel operator's hours of operation, number of staff, names of staff, and the staff's contact information. The Department may adopt rules adding requirements to a staffing plan. "Qualified fire inspector" means a local fire official or a building inspector working for a unit of local government or fire protection district who is qualified to inspect buildings for fire safety or building code compliance. (b) A kennel operator that maintains dogs or cats for boarding and that is not staffed at all times dogs or cats are on the premises shall be equipped with at least one fire alarm system or fire sprinkler system in operating condition in every building of the kennel operator that is used for the housing of animals. The kennel operator shall certify in its license application and annually certify in its license renewal that either: (1) its facility has a fire alarm system or a fire sprinkler system, and shall include with the application or license renewal an attached description and picture of the make and model of the system used; or (2) the kennel is staffed at all times dogs or cats are on the premises, and shall include with the application or license renewal an attached staffing plan. The Department shall include this certification on each application for license or license renewal. (c) A qualified fire inspector may inspect a kennel operator that maintains dogs and cats for boarding during the course of performing routine inspections. If, during a routine inspection, a qualified fire inspector determines that the kennel operator does not have a fire alarm system or fire sprinkler system, the inspector may inform the Department. (d) For the purposes of this Section, veterinary hospitals, practices, or offices are not kennel operators. (Source: P.A. 101-210, eff. 1-1-20; 102-558, eff. 8-20-21.)
225 ILCS 605/19
(225 ILCS 605/19) (from Ch. 8, par. 319) Sec. 19. The Director may issue regulations, consistent with the provisions of this Act, for the administration and enforcement thereof and may prescribe forms which shall be used in connection therewith. (Source: Laws 1965, p. 2956.)
225 ILCS 605/20
(225 ILCS 605/20) (from Ch. 8, par. 320) Sec. 20. Any person violating any provision of this Act, other than a violation of Section 3.8 of this Act, or any rule, regulation, or order of the Department issued pursuant to this Act is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor and every day a violation continues constitutes a separate offense. (Source: P.A. 102-586, eff. 2-23-22.)
225 ILCS 605/20.5
(225 ILCS 605/20.5) Sec. 20.5. Administrative fines. The following administrative fines shall be imposed by the Department upon any person or entity who violates any provision of this Act or any rule adopted by the Department under this Act: (1) For the first violation, a fine of $500. (2) For a second violation that occurs within 3 years after the first violation, a fine of $1,000. (3) For a third violation that occurs within 3 years after the first violation, mandatory probationary status and a fine of $2,500. If a person or entity fails or refuses to pay an administrative fine authorized by this Section, the Department may prohibit that person or entity from renewing a license under this Act until the fine is paid in full. Any penalty of $500 or more not paid within 120 days of issuance by the Department shall be submitted to the Department of Revenue for collection as provided under the Illinois State Collection Act of 1986. (Source: P.A. 101-295, eff. 8-9-19; 102-586, eff. 2-23-22.)
225 ILCS 605/21
(225 ILCS 605/21) (from Ch. 8, par. 321) Sec. 21. The following fees shall accompany each application for a license, which fees shall not be returnable: a. for an original license to an individual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $350 b. for an original license to a partnership, animal shelter, or animal control facility or corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $350 c. for an annual renewal license . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100 d. for each branch office license . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100 e. for the renewal of any license not renewed by July 1 of the year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $400 (Source: P.A. 101-295, eff. 8-9-19; 102-558, eff. 8-20-21.)
225 ILCS 605/22
(225 ILCS 605/22) (from Ch. 8, par. 322) Sec. 22. All fees and other money received by the Department under this Act shall be paid into the General Revenue Fund in the State Treasury. (Source: Laws 1965, p. 2956.)
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs.aspFetched: 10/17/2026