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Nassau County, NY Animal Ordinances: Bird Protection (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Scope
County-owned property only
First offense fine
$100–$500
Repeat offense fine
$250–$750 within 5 yrs
Enacted
Local Law 7-2007
Covers
Swans, geese, ducks

Summary

Nassau County prohibits feeding migratory waterfowl, swans, geese, and ducks, anywhere on county-owned property, including parks, preserves, and beaches, under the county's Migratory Waterfowl Law.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Nassau County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

No person shall feed or provide food for any migratory waterfowl on County property at any time of year.

Source: NYSDEC Bird ProtectionView official code

Full Breakdown

The county's Migratory Waterfowl Law (Miscellaneous Laws Title 63) bars feeding swans, geese, ducks, or other migratory waterfowl on any land Nassau County owns, leases, or manages, including parks, preserves, beaches, Mitchel Field, and Nassau Community College. 'Feed' covers giving, placing, exposing, depositing, distributing, or scattering edible material meant to attract the birds. Parks Department and Nassau Community College security officers, plus other county personnel authorized to issue appearance tickets, enforce it. The ban does not reach land under state, federal, or other municipal control.

Violations & Fines

A fine of $100 to $500 for a first offense; a repeat violation within five years brings a fine of $250 to $750.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed ducks at a Nassau County park?
No. Local Law 7-2007 bans feeding swans, geese, ducks, or other migratory waterfowl anywhere on county property, including parks and beaches, year-round.
Does the ban apply to a village park or my backyard?
No: it only covers land Nassau County itself owns, leases, or manages; state, federal, and other municipal property is exempt.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Nassau County

All Nassau County rules

New York rules heatmap·Compare Nassau County to another location·View the New York animal ordinances overview

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