Native migratory birds are protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Arizona ARS §17-235. Killing, trapping, or possessing protected birds, eggs, or feathers without a permit is illegal. Maricopa County supports compliance through MCACC and AZGFD wildlife reporting.
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 protects nearly every native bird species, plus their nests, eggs, and feathers. Arizona layers on ARS §17-235 and AZGFD rules requiring a license or permit to take, possess, or transport wildlife, including non-game birds. Common Maricopa County species like mourning doves, hummingbirds, hawks, owls, and Gambel's quail are covered. Removing an active nest with eggs or chicks generally requires a federal depredation permit; even nuisance pigeons need humane handling. House sparrows, European starlings, and rock pigeons are non-native and not MBTA-protected, but cannot be killed inhumanely under ARS §13-2910. AZGFD enforces state rules; injured wildlife should go to a licensed rehabilitator.
MBTA violations are federal misdemeanors with fines up to fifteen thousand dollars and six months in jail; commercial violations escalate to felonies. ARS Title 17 violations bring state fines, license suspension, and jail. Inhumane killing triggers ARS §13-2910 cruelty charges.
Chandler, AZ
Chandler requires all residential vehicles to be parked on improved surfaces (concrete, asphalt, or masonry). Vehicles may not overhang into public sidewalks...
Chandler, AZ
Chandler allows RV storage in residential districts only behind the front yard setback and screened from the street by a solid 6-foot wall or fence under Cha...
Chandler, AZ
Chandler enforces smoke alarm requirements through the 2018 International Fire Code (adopted in City Code Chapter 19) and the 2018 International Residential ...
Chandler, AZ
Chandler Fire Department adopts IFC Ch. 61. Residential cap: two 20-lb cylinders outdoors; no indoor storage. Permit required for tanks >125 gal. Chandler In...
Chandler, AZ
Chandler allows residential composting without permit. City runs periodic free compost giveaways from Public Works. No curbside organics. Commercial compost ...
Chandler, AZ
Chandler enforces property maintenance standards requiring yards to be kept free of overgrown weeds and vegetation. The Neighborhood Preservation division ad...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how Chandler's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.