Yakima County's foothills and shrub-steppe bring deer, elk, bears, and cougars near homes. Washington rules prohibit negligently feeding large wild carnivores, and feeding that draws wildlife into a nuisance or hazard can be abated locally. Backyard bird feeders are generally fine.
Feeding wildlife is discouraged and partly regulated in Yakima County, where deer, elk, black bears, and cougars move down from the Cascades and range across the shrub-steppe. Washington administrative rules make it unlawful to negligently feed large wild carnivores such as bears and cougars in a way that attracts them, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife responds to habituated animals. Feeding deer or other wildlife that creates a traffic hazard, spreads disease, or becomes a sanitation nuisance can be abated under local nuisance rules. Ordinary backyard songbird feeders are generally allowed, though they should be managed to avoid drawing bears.
Negligently feeding bears or cougars violates state wildlife rules and draws Department of Fish and Wildlife enforcement. Nuisance feeding of other wildlife can be abated locally with fines.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County may require hosts to carry liability insurance for short-term rental properties. Minimum coverage amounts vary by jurisdiction.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County limits the number of guests allowed in short-term rental properties. Occupancy caps are typically based on bedroom count or square footage to p...
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County requires replacement planting when permitted trees are removed. Replacement ratios and species specifications ensure canopy preservation.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County designates heritage or landmark trees based on size, age, or species. Removal or damage to heritage trees carries significant penalties.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County requires permits to remove trees above a certain size on private property. Protected species and street trees have additional restrictions.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County places few limits on residential holiday decorations. No permit is required to light up your own home. Displays should not block sidewalks or i...
See how Yakima County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.