Can I evict a Illinois tenant for unauthorized pets?
Yes, if the lease prohibits pets or requires landlord approval and the tenant has an unauthorized pet, this is a material lease breach that supports eviction. Illinois requires the landlord to serve a cure-or-quit notice (typical periods: 5 days for pay-or-quit under 735 ILCS 5/9-209, 10 days for violations under 5/9-210) demanding the pet be removed or possession returned. Service animals and emotional support animals under the federal Fair Housing Act are NOT pets and cannot be the basis for eviction; refusing them can violate federal law. Document the unauthorized pet (photos, witness reports) before serving notice.
Source: Illinois eviction statute + federal Fair Housing Act
This is an informational answer based on Illinois eviction statute + federal Fair Housing Act as of early 2026. It is not legal advice. Housing law changes year to year and local ordinances (especially in rent-controlled or rent-stabilized cities) can override or add to state law. For contested cases, consult a Illinois-licensed attorney.