Illinois Wildlife Code prohibits feeding deer and similar wildlife in many counties to prevent chronic wasting disease spread, with statewide enforcement authority.
The Illinois Wildlife Code (520 ILCS 5) and IDNR administrative rules (17 Ill. Adm. Code 635) prohibit baiting and feeding of wild deer in counties with confirmed chronic wasting disease (CWD) and certain neighboring counties. Feeding wild deer is prohibited statewide except where specifically permitted. Section 2.33 of the Wildlife Code regulates baiting practices for hunting. Bear and wolf feeding falls under nuisance wildlife provisions. Illinois Department of Natural Resources conservation officers enforce these rules. Municipalities cannot authorize practices the state has prohibited.
Petty offense to Class B misdemeanor; fines $75 to $1500; loss of hunting privileges.
See how Fairview Heights's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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