Albany County, NY Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

New York DEC strictly prohibits intentional feeding of wild white-tailed deer statewide under 6 NYCRR §189.3, enacted in 2002 to combat chronic wasting disease (CWD) spread. The ban covers salt licks, mineral blocks, corn, and supplemental feed; exceptions exist for agricultural operations and crop damage permits. NY ECL §11-0505 authorizes DEC to regulate wildlife feeding broadly. Intentional bear feeding is prohibited; black bears are increasingly present in western Albany County (Helderberg escarpment — towns of Berne, Knox, Westerloo, and Rensselaerville). Rabies is endemic in Albany County raccoons and bats, so feeding wildlife creates a direct public health hazard regulated by Albany County Department of Health under Public Health Law Article 21-A. Local ordinances in Bethlehem (Code §128), Guilderland, and New Scotland prohibit leaving pet food outdoors overnight and require secured trash containers. Bird feeders are generally allowed but must be positioned to avoid attracting deer or bears; DEC recommends taking feeders down April 1 through November 30 in bear country.