Feeding deer is prohibited statewide under NY DEC regulation 6 NYCRR 189. Buffalo Code Chapter 341 also prohibits feeding feral cats and wildlife in a way that creates a nuisance. Bird feeders are allowed but must be squirrel- and rat-resistant.
NY Department of Environmental Conservation regulation 6 NYCRR Part 189 bans the feeding of white-tailed deer statewide, with fines up to $250 per offense. Buffalo Code Chapter 341 adds local prohibitions on feeding feral cats, raccoons, or other wildlife in a manner that creates unsanitary conditions or attracts rodents. Feral cat colony management requires coordination with the SPCA Serving Erie County under a trap-neuter-return (TNR) framework. Bird feeders are permitted but must be maintained to prevent rat infestations, particularly in dense neighborhoods like the West Side, Lower West Side, and University District. Feeding waterfowl at Hoyt Lake in Delaware Park or the Buffalo waterfront is discouraged by City Parks due to goose overpopulation.
Deer feeding: up to $250 per offense (state). Feral cat/wildlife nuisance: $100 to $250 (city).
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See how Buffalo's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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