Fort Worth prohibits feeding wildlife including coyotes, raccoons, feral hogs, and bobcats under Chapter 6, though songbird and squirrel feeding from standard feeders is allowed.
Chapter 6 (Animals and Fowl) of the Fort Worth City Code prohibits intentionally feeding wildlife that creates a public nuisance or attracts predatory species. This includes coyotes, raccoons, bobcats, feral hogs, and skunks, which are increasingly seen in neighborhoods abutting the Trinity River corridor, Tandy Hills Natural Area, and suburban edges near Benbrook and Eagle Mountain Lake. Leaving pet food outdoors, unsecured trash, and deliberate feeding stations are all violations. Standard songbird feeders with seed designed for birds, and squirrel feeders, are generally allowed unless they attract rodents. Deer feeding is prohibited inside city limits. The ordinance carves out licensed wildlife rehabilitators. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department rules overlay city rules for protected species. Urban Wildlife Biologists with TPWD provide coyote-hazing guidance that Fort Worth Code Compliance promotes in lieu of feeding or trapping.
Initial offenses typically trigger a warning and education. Continued feeding draws Class C misdemeanor fines up to $500 per occurrence. If feeding leads to a dangerous wildlife encounter, civil nuisance liability may follow.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Tarrant County.
See how other cities in Tarrant County handle wildlife feeding.
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