Dog Restraint Ordinance Clarification

Summary

Illinois law requires dogs to be under control at all times. Letting a dog run loose, even on your property, could lead to liability if an incident occurs. Local ordinances may require a leash, so check specific rules to avoid fines.

Full Conversation

can you explain the statute or what it says
Sure! Here's a brief explanation of Illinois Compiled Statutes * ILCS */*-*-*:
- This statute allows municipalities in Illinois to remove nuisance buildings or structures.
- It addresses the process and conditions under which a municipality can act to remove or repair dangerous or unsafe buildings.
- Costs associated with these actions can be recovered by the municipality.
Is there something specific about this statute you need help with?
What does: The owner or keeper of the dog shall keep the dog under restraint at all times and shall not permit such dog to be large, off the premises of the property of the owner or keeper, unless the dog is under complete control
This statement means that dog owners or keepers must always keep their dogs restrained and not allow them to roam freely off their property unless the dog is under complete control, such as being on a leash. This is to ensure public safety and prevent any incidents involving the dog.
Do you have any specific concerns or situations regarding this statute?
So i can't let my dog out to use the bathroom and stand on the porch?
Case Rating: *
In general, you can let your dog out to use the bathroom while you stand on the porch, as long as your dog stays on your property and is under your control. The key is ensuring your dog does not wander off your property and is restrained or under control at all times.
Do you have any specific incidents or concerns related to this?
So if I let my dog out, without a leash and I stand on the porch, is that ok
Case Rating: *
In Illinois, you must ensure that your dog does not leave your property and is under control at all times. Letting your dog out without a leash while standing on the porch is generally acceptable if your dog stays on your property and remains under control.
Is there a specific incident or concern you are worried about?
so what if the dog runs loose and bites someone, is that my fault?
Case Rating: *
In Illinois, if your dog runs loose and bites someone, you may be held liable under the state's strict liability dog bite law. Here are some key points:
- Illinois imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dogs.
- You can be held liable even if you had no prior knowledge of the dog's aggressive tendencies.
Would you like to know more about the potential consequences or defenses related to dog bite incidents?
But you just said I could let the dog outside without a leash on and watch it. So if it runs loose, how is that my fault
Case Rating: *
If you let your dog outside without a leash and it runs loose and bites someone, under Illinois law, you could still be held liable. This is because as the owner, you are responsible for ensuring your dog is under control at all times.
Do you have any specific concerns or incidents related to your dog that you want to discuss further?
I just need to know can the police give me a citation if I let my dog outside and he's running on my property with me outside as well, but is not wearing a leash
Case Rating: *
In Illinois, you generally won't receive a citation if your dog is running on your property without a leash and you are present, as long as the dog is under your control and does not leave your property. However, local ordinances can vary, so it's important to check the specific rules in your municipality.
the ordinance is listed above for my town
Case Rating: *
It appears that you are concerned about the specifics of local ordinances regarding dog restraint and the potential liability involved. Local ordinances can indeed vary, so it's essential to check with your municipality for precise rules.
Is there anything else specific about your situation that you need assistance with?
This is the town's ordinance: The owner or keeper of the dog shall keep the dog under restraint at all times and shall not permit such dog to be large, off the premises of the property of the owner or keeper, unless the dog is under complete control
Case Rating: *
The town's ordinance requires that dogs must be kept under restraint and not allowed to roam off the owner's property unless under complete control. If your dog runs loose and is not under restraint, you could potentially be cited or held liable if any incidents occur.
Do you have any incidents or specific concerns related to this ordinance?
But am I ok to do it on my own property?
Case Rating: *
If your dog remains on your own property and is under your control, you generally comply with the ordinance. However, if your dog leaves your property or causes any issues while not restrained, you could face consequences.
Is there any specific incident or situation you're concerned about?
So basically I can do it but, I just run the risk of the dog running off?
Case Rating: *
Yes, you can let your dog out on your own property without a leash as long as you ensure the dog remains under control and doesn't leave your property. However, if the dog runs off and causes an incident, you could be held liable.
Do you have any other concerns or questions related to this issue?
What if someone is walking by in my yard and my dog attacks the person, it wouldnt be dog at large right?
Case Rating: *
If your dog attacks someone who is lawfully on your property, it wouldn't be considered "dog at large," but you could still be liable under strict liability dog bite laws in Illinois. Here are some key points:
- The dog must be restrained or under control.
- You're liable for injuries caused by your dog, even on your property.
Is there a specific incident you're worried about or need more details on?
So police can't do anything if my dog is running without a leash in my own yard and I'm out there?
Case Rating: *
Generally, if your dog is running without a leash in your yard and you are present, you should be okay as long as the dog is under your control and does not leave your property. However, if the dog injures someone, you could still be held liable under Illinois' strict liability dog bite laws.
Would you like to know more about potential legal consequences in specific scenarios?
Yeah I'm just seeing in the ordinance where it says, "The owner or keeper of a dog shall keep the dog under restraint at all times" and it's making me think that it does have to be on a leash, even if I'm outside
Case Rating: *
It sounds like you're concerned about interpreting the local ordinance properly. Here are a couple of key points to consider:
- "Under restraint" typically means the dog must be controlled, which can include being on a leash.
- Local ordinances may vary, so it is best to confirm with your town's specific rules.
Would you like more detailed information on your town’s specific ordinance?
So by reading the last part of the ordinance that I just typed, what's your thoughts on that
Case Rating: *
It seems like you're seeking clarification on whether your town's ordinance requires your dog to be on a leash even when on your property. Based on the language "under restraint at all times," it likely means the dog must be controlled, which can include being on a leash. Local ordinances can vary, so it's a good idea to confirm with your town's specific rules. You may want to contact your local municipal office for precise guidance.
Do you have any more questions or specific concerns about this ordinance?
So I should just keep it on a leash while outside instead of letting it run loose?
Case Rating: *
Yes, it would be best to keep your dog on a leash while outside to ensure it is under control at all times, as per the local ordinance. This will help you avoid potential citations and liability issues. Do you have any other concerns or questions related to this topic?
So could I be fined for dog at large if it's on my proerty but not on a leash? According to the ordiance I would be violating the part of "The owner or keeper of a dog shall keep the dog under restraint at all times"
Case Rating: *
You might be fined if your dog is not on a leash, as the ordinance requires the dog to be "under restraint at all times." This can be interpreted to mean that a leash is necessary, even on your property. To avoid any potential fines or issues, it's best to follow the ordinance strictly.
Would you like more information on how to ensure compliance with your local laws?