NY DEC Environmental Conservation Law ECL 11-0505 prohibits feeding deer and bear statewide, including Orange County NY. Bear activity is significant in western Orange County towns (Deerpark, Greenville, Minisink, Warwick) near the Shawangunk Ridge. Bird feeders are generally permitted but may be ordered removed by DEC following bear incidents.
NY Environmental Conservation Law ECL 11-0505 bans intentional feeding of white-tailed deer and black bear anywhere in New York State. DEC wildlife biologists in Region 3 (covering Orange County) respond to nuisance bear reports and can issue written orders to remove attractants including bird feeders, pet food, and unsecured garbage. Orange County has recorded increasing black bear sightings in the Shawangunk Ridge, Bearfort Mountain, and Harriman/Bear Mountain State Park areas, with most DEC-issued feeder removal notices occurring between April and November. Violators can receive DEC appearance tickets returnable to town justice court. Fines up to 250 dollars plus surcharges apply per ECL 71-0925, with additional penalties for repeat offenses.
DEC ticket up to 250 dollars per offense plus mandatory court surcharge. Repeat violations may escalate to higher fines under ECL 71-0925. Feeder removal orders are mandatory once issued.
Orange County, NY
Amplified music audible beyond property lines after 10 PM is a violation in most Orange County municipalities. Outdoor venue permits required for events at B...
Orange County, NY
Overnight on-street parking in Orange County NY varies by municipality. The City of Newburgh bans on-street parking 2 AM to 6 AM from November through April ...
Orange County, NY
Orange County NY municipalities require sight-triangle clearance at intersections. The typical rule: no visual obstructions over 30 inches tall within 25-30 ...
Orange County, NY
Orange County NY follows NY State Fire Code and 6 NYCRR Part 215. Recreational fires allowed in towns under 20,000 population with restrictions. Towns set lo...
Orange County, NY
Orange County NY has moderate wildfire risk concentrated in the Hudson Highlands, Shawangunk Ridge, and Harriman/Bear Mountain State Park areas. Unlike weste...
Orange County, NY
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in Orange County NY. Rain barrels for non-potable garden and landscape use are encouraged by the NY DEC and Cornell Coope...
See how Orange County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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