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Albuquerque, NM Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

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

Key Facts

Governing law
ROA § 9-18-3, Pigeon Nuisance Abatement
First offense
Written warning only
Repeat offense fine
Up to $50 per day
Enforcing office
Dept. of Environmental Health Director
Exempt
Caged show birds; non-pigeon bird feeders

Summary

Intentionally feeding feral pigeons anywhere in Albuquerque, public or private property, is a civil violation under the city's Pigeon Nuisance Abatement law, with a written warning for a first offense and fines after that.

(A) It is a violation of this article for any person to intentionally feed feral pigeons on any public or private property within Albuquerque city limits. ... (E)(1) The first violation of this section shall result in a written warning by the Director. ... (2) The second violation and subsequent violations of this section shall result in a fine not to exceed $50 for each violation or each day of a continuing violation.

Source: ROA 1994 Chapter 9 Animal ControlView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-95: Current through Ordinance 2026-010, passed 4-6-2026).

Full Breakdown

Albuquerque Code § 9-18-3 makes it a violation to intentionally feed feral (wild-state) pigeons on any public or private property citywide, and also bars leaving out food, garbage or animal feed in a way you know will draw pigeons to linger or roost. The Director of Environmental Health issues a written warning for a first violation; a second or later violation draws a fine of up to $50 per violation or per day it continues. The ban exempts show/racing birds kept caged and ordinary backyard bird feeders, as long as the seed isn't drawing pigeons.

Violations & Fines

First offense: written warning from the Director specifying corrective action. Second and later violations: fine up to $50 per violation or per continuing day; violator may request a hearing within 15 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed pigeons in my own backyard in Albuquerque?
No. Section 9-18-3 bans intentionally feeding feral pigeons on private as well as public property citywide, not just parks.
Does a regular bird feeder violate the pigeon rule?
No, seed set out for other birds is exempt unless it draws significant numbers of pigeons or creates a pigeon nuisance.
What happens the first time I'm caught feeding pigeons?
You get a written warning from the Director detailing the violation and required corrective action, not an immediate fine.

Sources & Official References

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All Albuquerque rules

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