Illinois Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements

Last updated: 2026-02-21

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Quick Summary

Illinois requires dog breeders to be licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture under the Animal Welfare Act. Anyone who breeds dogs and sells them must hold a valid license, unless they own 5 or fewer females capable of reproduction. The license costs $350 per year.

License Required Yes
Annual Fee $350
Threshold More than 5 unspayed females capable of reproduction
Inspection Annual plus unannounced visits
Governing Agency Illinois Department of Agriculture

Regulatory Agency: Illinois Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Health and Welfare

Who Needs a License in Illinois?

Under the Illinois Animal Welfare Act (225 ILCS 605), anyone who breeds dogs and sells them is considered a 'dog breeder' and must get a license from the Illinois Department of Agriculture. However, if you own, have possession of, or keep 5 or fewer female dogs capable of reproduction, you are not considered a dog breeder under the law and do not need a license. The Department also licenses pet shop operators, dog dealers, kennel operators, animal shelters, day care operators, guard dog services, and horse rescues.

How to Apply

To apply for a license, you must submit an application to the Illinois Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Health and Welfare. The application includes a non-refundable $350 fee. After your application is received, the Department will schedule a preliminary inspection of your facility. Your facility must meet all health, housing, and sanitary standards set by the Animal Welfare Act and its rules before you can be approved. Licenses must be renewed each year.

Fees and Costs

The license application fee is $350, and this fee is non-refundable. This fee applies to each license type, so if you operate in multiple categories (such as both a breeder and a kennel operator), you may need to pay the fee for each license. The $350 fee is due each year when you renew your license. Local counties or cities may charge additional fees for their own kennel or business permits.

Inspections and Compliance

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has the authority to inspect all licensed facilities. Inspections check that your facility meets the health, housing, and sanitary standards required by the Animal Welfare Act. Annual inspections are standard, and the Department can also conduct unannounced inspections at any time. Kennel operators must have either a fire alarm system or fire sprinkler system, or must have staff present at all times when dogs or cats are on the premises.

Record-Keeping Requirements

All licensees under the Animal Welfare Act must keep records of the origin and sale of all dogs. This means you need to track where each dog came from, its vaccination status, and who bought or adopted it. Records of any health issues and veterinary care should also be maintained. These records must be available for inspection by the Department at any time upon demand.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Operating without a license when one is required is a violation of the Illinois Animal Welfare Act. The Department can take enforcement actions including fines, license suspension, or license revocation. Facilities that fail inspections must correct problems promptly or face further action. Local governments may have their own penalties for violating local kennel ordinances. The state takes animal welfare seriously, and repeated violations can lead to being permanently banned from holding a license.

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