Chicago discourages wildlife feeding through Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) guidelines and general nuisance provisions in MCC 7-28. Feeding wildlife that creates a public health nuisance or attracts rodents may result in enforcement action.
While Chicago does not have a blanket wildlife feeding ban, feeding wildlife in ways that attract rodents or create nuisance conditions violates MCC 7-28 (Health and Safety) provisions regarding pest control and sanitation. CACC advises that wild animals including bats, rabbits, hawks, deer, raccoons, opossums, foxes, and coyotes should never be approached or fed. The Chicago Park District Code Chapter VII also regulates feeding of animals in parks. Intentional feeding of pigeons or other birds that creates accumulations of droppings or attracts vermin may be cited as a nuisance. CACC responds to wildlife threats to public safety.
Nuisance violations under MCC 7-28 carry fines of $200 to $500. Park District violations carry fines up to $500. Repeated violations creating rodent infestations may trigger additional health department enforcement.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle wildlife feeding.
See how Chicago's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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