Pittsburgh, PA Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Feeding wildlife in Pittsburgh is governed by a combination of city and state regulations. Pittsburgh City Code Title 6, Chapter 636 (Wild Animals) restricts the keeping and harboring of wild animals within city limits. While the city does not have a standalone wildlife-feeding ban, general nuisance provisions under Chapter 601 and property-maintenance codes can be enforced when wildlife feeding creates unsanitary conditions, attracts vermin, or disturbs neighbors. At the state level, 58 Pa. Code Section 137.33 prohibits the feeding of certain wildlife species including elk, bear, and other large game when it creates a public nuisance or safety hazard. The PA Game Commission enforces this regulation statewide. Additionally, 17 Pa. Code Section 21.116 addresses wildlife feeding near certain areas. Pittsburgh Animal Care and Control responds to wildlife-related complaints. Residents who intentionally feed deer, coyotes, bears, or other large wildlife risk both city nuisance citations and state Game Commission enforcement. Bird feeders are generally permitted but may be ordered removed if they attract nuisance wildlife such as rats.