Madison prohibits feeding deer, waterfowl, and most wildlife under MGO 23.32 and related park rules. Bird feeding in moderation is generally allowed. WI DNR baiting/feeding rules (WI Stat 29.336) also apply to deer.
MGO 23.32 and parks ordinances prohibit feeding of deer, geese, ducks, turkeys, raccoons, and other wildlife within Madison, in part to protect the four-lakes ecosystem (Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa) and to discourage human-wildlife conflicts. Feeding waterfowl contributes to excess nitrogen and phosphorus loading into the lakes and is specifically discouraged. WI Stat 29.336 and DNR rules prohibit or restrict deer feeding and baiting in many counties including Dane County, both for chronic wasting disease (CWD) management and public health. Bird feeding at residential feeders for songbirds is generally allowed if it does not create nuisance or attract deer, bears, or rodents. Feeding that causes property damage to neighbors can trigger nuisance enforcement.
Citations 124 to 500 dollars. State deer-feeding violations under WI Stat 29.971 can exceed 1,000 dollars.
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