Flagstaff, AZ Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Flagstaff City Code § 6-01-001-0023 makes it unlawful to intentionally, knowingly or recklessly feed wildlife, defined as all wild mammals and wild birds, or to place edible material where it is likely to attract them, anywhere inside the Flagstaff city limits. 'Edible material' is defined broadly to include human or animal food, food by-product, salt, organic material, refuse, garbage or water, so leaving out pet food, an unlidded garbage can or a salt lick for deer all qualify. Subsection D lists specific exceptions: public employees such as Arizona Game and Fish officers acting under A.R.S.

Title 17 or for public safety; edible material kept inside a residence, closed vehicle, enclosed storage or a closed trash container; feeding one's own horses or domestic animals; bird seed or nectar placed in a closed-top feeder at least four feet above the ground for wild birds or tree squirrels; growing plants and their fallen fruit; fully contained compost inaccessible to wildlife; and hand-feeding ducks or waterfowl on lakes or ponds. Subsection E narrows those exceptions further: even a compliant bird feeder or compost pile becomes a violation if the person knows it is attracting wildlife other than birds or squirrels, such as bears, elk or javelina, and does not modify or stop the activity.

An Arizona Game and Fish officer, an animal control officer, or any State-certified peace officer can issue the warning or citation under subsection F. Penalties escalate under subsection H: a first violation draws only a written warning plus educational material; a repeat within sixty days is a petty offense with a fine up to $150; a further repeat within ninety days carries a fine between $150 and $300; and two or more prior convictions within 180 days elevates the offense to a Class 3 misdemeanor. Each day a violation continues can count as a separate offense under subsection G.