What Illinois law says about licensing a boarding kennel or daycare, pets nobody picks up, and rabies. Checked November 2, 2026.
State license
The Illinois Department of Agriculture licenses kennel operators and day care operators. The first license is $350 and renewal is $100 a year; you agree to inspections, and must have staff present or a fire sprinkler or alarm system.
Covers kennels
By state regulation, not statute, a licensed kennel may dispose of a pet if the owner doesn't appear or make contact within 30 days after the stated return time. No notice is required.
Required
Dogs 4 months and older must be vaccinated by a vet.
Statute text was read on animallaw.info, not the official site, so confirm fees at ilga.gov; the 30-day rule may not cover day care operators.
Sources: 225 ILCS 605 (Animal Welfare Act) 8 Ill. Adm. Code 25.120 8 Ill. Adm. Code 25.145 510 ILCS 5/8
Facts, not legal advice. Laws change, and your county or city may have its own kennel permit: call them before you rely on any of this.
| State | Kennel license | Pets nobody picks up | Rabies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | State license | Covers kennels | Required |
| Indiana | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Iowa | State license | Covers kennels | Required |
| Kentucky | No state license | Vets only | Required |
| Missouri | State license | Vets only | Local rules |
| Wisconsin | No state license | No rule found | Required |
Zoning, your county or city, and the fire marshal come too. The Opening Kit walks you through all of them, with the questions to ask each office, then insurance, policies, prices and your first twenty clients.
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