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What animal ordinances should I know about? Do I need a dog tag in Vernon Hills?
In the interest of everyone's health, safety, and peace, all residents are asked to please be considerate and adhere to the village ordinances regarding animals. Here's a brief rundown of the Vernon Hills animal ordinances that have the greatest impact on residents.
Dog Tags - Vernon Hills does not have dog tags. However, a Lake County tag is required. Your veterinarian can supply you with the information on this.
 Leash Laws (i.e. "Running at Large") - Dogs and cats are considered "running at large" if the animal is not on its owner's exclusively owned property and is not under control with a leash or contained in an auto. The leash must be no more than 8 feet in length and held by a person physically capable of controlling the animal.
Impoundment Fee - Whenever the police department takes control of a dog or cat found to be running at large, the owner of the animal is assessed a $20.00 impoundment fee.
Waste Removal - Unless the dog or cat is on property owned exclusively by the animal's owner, the owner must have in his/her possession an appropriate device (i.e. pooper scooper, bag, etc.) for scooping excrement and a place on their own property to deposit it. 
Noisy Animals - If you have had to listen to a barking dog all night long, you know how aggravating it can be. Village ordinances authorize the police to investigate complaints of barking, yelping, howling or crying dogs and cats. Owners in violation can be warned or fined where appropriate.
Animal Bites - Village ordinances require that anyone having knowledge or reason to believe that any animal in the village has bitten a person to report the incident to the police within 24 hours.
Number of Dogs and Cats - It’s unlawful for anyone to keep more than a total of 3 dogs or 3 cats or a total of 3 of any combination, with the exception that a litter of pups or a litter of kittens, or a portion of a litter may be kept for a period of time not exceeding six months from birth. (There is an exception for commercial establishments.)
Fines - There is an escalating fine schedule for enforcement of all animal ordinances:
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First Offense:
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$20
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| Second Offense: |
$40
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| Third Offense: |
$80
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| Fourth Offense: |
$160
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| Fifth Offense: |
$250
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Contact the police department if you would like additional information or have any questions. You can call (847) 247-4889 or send an e-mail.
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