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.
Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert is near Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and Williams Gateway training areas. Aircraft noise is federally regulated and exempt from local noise ordinance...
Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert supports EV adoption through development standards. Residential EV charger installation requires electrical permits. New developments may include EV-...
Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert restricts large commercial vehicles in residential areas. All vehicles must be on improved surfaces, and commercial vehicles should not create a comm...
Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert regulates fence heights through the Land Development Code. Residential fences are generally limited to 6 feet in side and rear yards, with lower limi...
Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert's Land Development Code specifies acceptable fence materials. Block walls, wrought iron, and vinyl are standard. Barbed wire is prohibited in residen...
Gilbert, AZ
Gilbert follows the 2018 International Residential Code (Section R314) and 2018 International Fire Code adopted statewide in Arizona. Smoke alarms are requir...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how Gilbert's bird protection rules stack up against other locations.
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