IL HB3390

Amends the Animal Welfare Act to require kennel operators that board dogs or cats without staff present at all times to install at least one fire alarm system or fire sprinkler system in operating condition in every animal housing building.

Kennel operators must certify during license application and annual renewal that their facility either has a fire alarm or sprinkler system (with description and photos) or maintains staff on premises at all times animals are present (with attached staffing plan).

Staffing plans must include kennel operator hours of operation, number of staff, staff names, and contact information, with the Department authorized to adopt additional staffing plan requirements by rule.

Qualified fire inspectors (local fire officials or building inspectors) may inspect boarding kennels during routine inspections and report non-compliance with fire safety systems to the Department.

Excludes veterinary hospitals, practices, and offices from the kennel operator definition and takes effect January 1, 2020.