Illinois is a popular state for travelers, whether they’re visiting Chicago or passing through on their way across the country. However, there are some items you can’t bring into the state. Let’s look at some of these surprising bans.
First, alcohol regulations in Illinois are stricter than you might think. You can’t bring more than a gallon of alcohol into the state. Even a six-pack can be over the limit.
Next, there’s a ban on bringing firewood into Illinois unless it’s from in-state trees. This might seem odd, but it’s probably to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Another rule is that you can’t have open alcohol in your vehicle when entering Illinois, not even if it’s just the passenger who has it. This one makes sense for safety reasons.
Pets need to be certified by a vet before they can enter Illinois. This ensures that all animals are healthy and safe to bring into the state.
If you’re transporting livestock, you’ll need a special permit. This regulation helps monitor and manage animal health and safety.
Dangerous animals are also on the no-entry list. This rule is pretty obvious, as it helps keep everyone safe.
Certain kinds of fish need special approval before being brought into Illinois. This helps protect the local ecosystem.
Weapons like knives, switchblades, throwing stars, and other blades are prohibited. Again, this is to ensure public safety.
Fireworks are illegal to bring into Illinois, even though they are commonly used around the Fourth of July. Many residents might not know about this ban.
Lastly, marijuana cannot be brought into or taken out of Illinois, despite its legal status within the state.
Apart from these, Illinois has some unusual laws that might make you chuckle. For instance, in Normal, Illinois, it’s illegal to make silly faces at dogs. In Northbrook, a dog can’t bark for more than 15 minutes. In Zion, you can’t give a lighted cigar to your dog, and in all of Illinois, you can’t give your dog a shot of whiskey.
In Mount Pulaski, girls aren’t allowed to throw snowballs, but boys can. In Bloomington, you can’t feed birds if you live within one mile of downtown. In Galesburg, dogs can’t be smelly in public, and killing a rat with a baseball bat can get you fined. In Kenilworth, roosters can’t crow within 300 feet of a residence. In Kirkland, bees were once banned from flying over streets, though this law is outdated now.
Also Read:
- Exploring Illinois: America’s Most Underrated Road Trip Destination
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In Moline, ice skating is not allowed during June and August. In Horner, sling shots are banned unless you’re a police officer. In Evanston, you can’t change clothes in your car with the curtains drawn unless there’s a fire. In Pullman, you can’t enjoy buckets of beer while sitting on a curb. Finally, in Peoria, it’s illegal to have a basketball hoop on your driveway.
