Boulder County, CO Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Feeding big game
- Illegal statewide (C.R.S. 33-6-131)
- Bear attractants
- Barred by CPW rules
- Dogs vs. wildlife
- No chasing (Ord. 2022-8)
- Prairie dogs
- Managed/protected on Open Space
- County program
- Bear-resistant trash
Summary
Boulder County residents may not intentionally feed big game or bears. Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulation and C.R.S. 33-6-131 make it illegal to intentionally feed big game (deer, elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain goats) and prohibit leaving food that attracts bears and lions. Boulder County promotes bear-resistant trash.
It shall be unlawful for the owner of a dog to allow such dog to chase or attack any person, domestic animal or fowl or any species of wildlife.
Full Breakdown
Feeding wildlife is governed by state law rather than a stand-alone county ordinance. Colorado Wildlife Commission regulations and C.R.S. 33-6-131 prohibit intentionally feeding big game animals, and separate CPW guidance bars leaving attractants (trash, pet food, bird seed, compost) accessible to bears and mountain lions. Boulder County's Zero Waste and wildlife programs push bear-resistant containers in foothills and mountain areas, and Boulder County Ordinance 2022-8 makes it unlawful to let a dog chase or attack 'any species of wildlife.' Distinct native species matter here: prairie dogs on county Open Space are actively managed and protected, and killing them requires county authorization. Cities such as Boulder add their own bear-attractant ordinances.
Violations & Fines
Intentionally feeding big game or leaving bear attractants is a state wildlife violation under C.R.S. 33-6-131 and CPW regulation, carrying fines and possible license points. Letting a dog chase wildlife is a petty offense under Ordinance 2022-8.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed deer or elk in Boulder County?
Are prairie dogs protected in Boulder County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boulder County
Compare Boulder County to another location·View the Colorado animal ordinances overview
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