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Independence, MO Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Core rule
no knowingly feeding wild animals
Exception
bird/squirrel feeders allowed
Exception
aid to injured wildlife <24 hrs
Fine
$100.00–$500.00 per Sec. 3.04.003

Summary

Independence bars knowingly feeding any wild animal within city limits, though bird and squirrel feeders, garden and livestock feed, and short-term aid to injured or orphaned wildlife are allowed.

A. No person shall knowingly feed any wild animal within the corporate limits of the City. B. Exceptions: 1. Any person who feeds or provides food for less than 24 hours to a trapped, injured or unweaned wild animal until the animal can be turned over to a licensed wildlife specialist. 2. Any person with a bird feeder intended for birds or a squirrel feeder intended for squirrels, provided reasonable attempts have been taken to make it inaccessible to other wild animals.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 13).

Full Breakdown

Independence City Code § 3.04.002 makes it unlawful to knowingly feed any wild animal, deer, geese, raccoons, or similar, anywhere within city limits. The ordinance carves out common-sense exceptions: short-term aid (under 24 hours) to a trapped, injured, or unweaned animal en route to a wildlife specialist; bird and squirrel feeders kept free of spilled seed; feeding tied to raising livestock or farm animals; and ordinary gardening or ornamental planting. Conviction under the companion penalty section carries a fine of not less than $100.00 and not more than $500.00, with each continuing day of violation charged as a separate offense.

Violations & Fines

Knowingly feeding a wild animal outside the listed exceptions draws a fine of $100.00 to $500.00 per offense, with each continuing day treated as a separate violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put out a bird feeder in Independence?
Yes. Independence City Code § 3.04.002(B)(2) exempts bird and squirrel feeders as long as the area under them is kept free of seed debris that attracts other wildlife.
Is it illegal to feed deer or geese in my yard?
Yes, knowingly feeding deer, geese, or other wild animals is banned citywide under § 3.04.002(A), with fines from $100.00 to $500.00 for violations.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Independence

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All Independence rules

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