MassWildlife (MGL ch. 131 §5A as amended) prohibits intentional feeding of black bears statewide. Bristol County cities restrict feeding of deer, turkeys, and coyotes. Unsecured trash and outdoor pet food attracting wildlife trigger local nuisance enforcement.
Massachusetts state law prohibits intentional feeding of black bears, and MassWildlife regulations discourage feeding of all large wildlife. Fall River, New Bedford, and Taunton ordinances prohibit feeding that creates nuisance conditions, specifically targeting deer, coyotes, turkeys, and feral cats (TNR programs have separate rules). Unsecured trash, open compost, and pet food left outdoors are treated as unintentional feeding and are violations. Bird feeders may be restricted during bear-active months (April-November). Wildlife fed by humans lose their natural avoidance and become public-safety hazards, triggering nuisance orders from MassWildlife. Coyote-feeding complaints are common along the Taunton River corridor. Rabies-vector species (raccoons, skunks, foxes) may not be fed under any circumstances.
First offense: written warning. Second offense: $50 to $300 fine. Repeat or egregious (bear feeding): state-law violation, up to $500 fine. Rabies-vector feeding: public health citation.
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See how Bristol County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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