Weld County, CO Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- County feeding ordinance
- None specific
- State bear rule
- C.R.S. 33-6-131
- First offense
- Warning
- Repeat fines
- $200 / $1,000 / $2,000
- Enforced by
- Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Summary
Weld County has no general wildlife-feeding ordinance, but Colorado state law makes it unlawful to place food in the open to lure a wild bear. Along the Front Range edge of the county, residents should secure trash and avoid feeding deer, elk, or bears.
Unless otherwise permitted by commission rule, it is unlawful for any person to place food or edible waste in the open with the intent of luring a wild bear to such food or edible waste.
Full Breakdown
Under C.R.S. 33-6-131, unless otherwise permitted by commission rule it is unlawful to place food or edible waste in the open with the intent of luring a wild bear. The rule exempts agriculture and unharvested crops. Enforcement is by Colorado Parks and Wildlife: a first violation brings a warning, and a second or subsequent violation is a misdemeanor with fines up to $200, $1,000, and $2,000. Weld County's own code does not add a general prohibition on feeding deer or elk, so bear-attractant behavior in the county is governed by this state statute plus any HOA wildlife-attractant covenants. Securing garbage and pet food is the practical rule most residents follow.
Violations & Fines
Intentionally luring a wild bear: a warning for a first offense, then a misdemeanor with fines up to $200 (first), $1,000 (second), and $2,000 (third or subsequent) under C.R.S. 33-6-131(3).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to feed bears in Weld County?
Can I feed deer in my yard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Weld County
Compare Weld County to another location·View the Colorado animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.