Denver prohibits intentional feeding of deer, elk, bears, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, skunks, and prairie dogs under DRMC §8-91. Bird feeders allowed but must be bear-resistant from Apr 15-Nov 15 in foothill zones.
Denver Revised Municipal Code §8-91 prohibits knowingly or intentionally feeding wildlife on any public or private property in the city. Covered species include deer, elk, coyotes, foxes, bears, mountain lions, raccoons, skunks, prairie dogs, and geese. Unsecured trash, pet food left outside, and improperly stored livestock feed count as unintentional feeding and trigger enforcement. Bird feeders for songbirds and hummingbirds are permitted but Denver Parks & Wildlife recommends removing them during bear activity (Apr 15 - Nov 15) especially in western Denver near Bear Creek, Sloan's Lake, and the Highline Canal corridor. Colorado Parks & Wildlife (C.R.S. §33-6-131) separately makes feeding big game a state wildlife offense. Denver Animal Protection enforces local code; CPW enforces state law.
First offense: written warning. Second: $50 to $500 per DRMC §1-13. Repeat/intentional bear feeding: state misdemeanor under C.R.S. §33-6-131 up to $1,000.
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