Chelsea, MA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Wildlife feeding in Suffolk County is regulated at both state and local levels. MGL c. 131, §75A prohibits intentionally placing bait or food to attract bears; violation carries up to $300 fine and loss of hunting privileges. MassWildlife regulations (321 CMR 2.00) allow feeding bans to be established where wildlife conflicts arise. While Suffolk County has limited bear activity, urban wildlife issues focus on pigeons, rats, and feral cats. Boston Health Code (City of Boston Ordinances §2-2.8) and Board of Health regulations prohibit feeding pigeons and wild birds in a manner that creates a nuisance, provides a food source for rats, or accumulates on public property. Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop Boards of Health have similar authority under MGL c. 111, §31 and local nuisance bylaws. Unsecured trash that feeds rats is a violation of the Boston Rodent Control Ordinance (Boston Code §16-26). All four municipalities have leash/at-large rules preventing domestic animals from accessing wildlife feed. Feral cat colony management: Suffolk County municipalities permit registered Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs but require organized oversight. Feeding seagulls along the Revere Beach Reservation is prohibited under DCR regulations (302 CMR 12.00). Holiday and entertainment event organizers must plan feeding-prevention measures.