Colonie, NY Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

ECL section 11-0521, supplemented by 6 NYCRR Part 189, makes it unlawful to intentionally feed deer or moose, with limited exceptions for the feeding of livestock that incidentally attracts deer, normal agricultural practices, distribution of food in deer-feeding studies authorized by the Department, and feeding of domestic animals on residential property where the food is not intentionally placed for deer. Bird feeders that incidentally attract deer must be redesigned or removed if the DEC issues a notice. The rationale is the prevention of chronic wasting disease (CWD) spread, vehicle-deer collisions, and over-browse damage to landscaping and forest understory. Colonie has elevated deer-vehicle collision rates along Route 7, Route 9, and Albany Shaker Road, making the state rule locally relevant. The Town of Colonie Parks and Recreation rules separately direct visitors not to feed or approach wild, stray, or injured animals in town parks. Black bear, raccoon, coyote, and waterfowl feeding are not directly banned by state law but may be cited under nuisance theories if the feeding attracts dangerous wildlife or creates a public-health problem. Bird feeders are generally permitted but must be removed if they attract bears (per DEC guidance for bear country, including upstate Albany County).