Multnomah County, OR Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Multnomah County Animal Services enforces MCC Chapter 13 (Animal Control and Care) including provisions against feeding wildlife in a manner that creates a public nuisance, attracts rats, or habituates wildlife. Oregon Revised Statutes 496.730 prohibits feeding big game animals (deer, elk) when it creates a public safety hazard, is enforced by ODFW, and carries a $500 civil penalty under ORS 498.276. Feeding of predatory animals (coyotes, cougars, bears) is discouraged and subject to nuisance enforcement. Portland's Forest Park area and the West Hills have seasonal black bear activity (May-October) — Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife advises removing bird feeders and securing pet food and trash. Columbia River islands (Sauvie Island) have deer, elk, and migratory waterfowl feeding restrictions under US Fish & Wildlife Refuge rules. Feeding feral cats on public property is governed by Multnomah County Animal Services' Community Cat Program, which requires TNR (trap-neuter-return) registration. Rats attracted by pet food or bird seed trigger Multnomah County Environmental Health enforcement under MCC 15.600 (Vector Control). Portland Parks & Recreation prohibits feeding wildlife in parks under PPR rules and posts signage at sites with known conflict animals.