Evanston restricts the feeding of wildlife to prevent nuisance conditions. The city code prohibits intentionally feeding deer, coyotes, and other wild animals that create public safety or nuisance concerns. Feeding feral cats is regulated, and the city partners with community organizations for trap-neuter-return programs. Bird feeders are generally permitted but may be ordered removed if they attract rodents or other pest animals.
Evanston's municipal code addresses wildlife feeding as part of its nuisance and animal control provisions. Intentionally feeding deer, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, or opossums is prohibited because it habituates these animals to human contact and increases human-wildlife conflicts. Evanston has an active coyote population, and the city's wildlife management approach emphasizes hazing and deterrence rather than lethal control. Feeding coyotes is specifically discouraged and may be enforced as a nuisance violation. Feral cat management follows a community trap-neuter-return (TNR) approach in partnership with local rescue organizations. Managed feral cat colonies may be fed by registered caretakers, but unmanaged feeding of stray cats is a nuisance violation. Bird feeders are allowed on residential property but must be placed so they do not attract rats or mice. If a bird feeder is found to be contributing to a rodent problem, the city may order its removal. Residents should secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and not leave pet food outdoors to avoid attracting wildlife. The city's 311 system accepts reports of nuisance wildlife.
Feeding prohibited wildlife species may result in a warning followed by fines of $50 to $250 per occurrence. If wildlife feeding creates a documented nuisance condition (property damage, aggressive animal behavior, rodent infestation), fines can increase to $500. Repeat offenders may face daily fines until the feeding activity ceases.
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