Auburn, WA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Auburn does not have a separate wildlife-feeding ordinance but enforces Washington State law. RCW 77.15.792 and WAC 220-440-070 prohibit negligent feeding, attempting to feed, or attracting large wild carnivores (bears, cougars) and deer and elk. Intentional feeding is a criminal infraction. WDFW routinely issues warnings then citations for bird feeders or compost piles that habituate bears to residential properties, especially in the Lea Hill area, Lakeland Hills, and along the Green River greenbelt. Coyote habituation has grown in Auburn neighborhoods; feeding coyotes is actively discouraged even though they are not categorically listed in the statute. Raccoon feeding often leads to ACC 6.02.140 nuisance citations when it causes public disturbance or property damage. Songbird feeders, squirrel feeders, and typical backyard wildlife interactions are allowed but should be secured against rodent attraction and bear access. Trash must be secured in bear-resistant cans in hillside neighborhoods; unsecured garbage is a nuisance under ACC 8.12.