Nelson Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding Rules (2026)

Nevada state law and federal land rules restrict wildlife feeding across Clark County. On Nevada Department of Wildlife land, under NRS 503 and NAC 503, intentional feeding of big game (desert bighorn sheep, mule deer) and predators (coyote, bobcat, mountain lion) is prohibited because it habituates animals and creates public safety hazards. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Desert National Wildlife Refuge, and Lake Mead National Recreation Area impose federal prohibitions on feeding any wildlife, including burros, under 43 CFR and National Park Service regulations. Feeding wild burros at Red Rock can carry fines up to $1,000 under BLM rules. Within unincorporated Clark County residential areas, backyard bird feeders are allowed but feeding that attracts coyotes, foxes, or desert tortoise onto private property can lead to Title 14 nuisance review if it draws other complaints (vermin, bees, or aggressive wildlife). Community cat colonies (feral cats) are governed by Title 10 and the Trap-Neuter-Return framework supported by The Animal Foundation and Clark County Animal Protection Services — unmanaged feeding that creates a nuisance can be cited. Never feed Lake Mead wildlife from a boat or shore.