Scottsdale discourages feeding wildlife due to the risks posed by coyotes, javelina, and other desert wildlife common in the Sonoran Desert environment. While no specific citywide ordinance bans all wildlife feeding, Scottsdale code addresses nuisance conditions created by attracting wildlife, and AZGFD regulations prohibit feeding certain species.
Scottsdale sits within the Sonoran Desert and is home to coyotes, javelina, bobcats, rattlesnakes, and other desert wildlife. The city addresses wildlife-related nuisances through its general nuisance and property maintenance codes. Feeding wildlife can create public safety hazards and attract animals into residential areas. AZGFD regulations (ARS §17-306) govern wildlife interactions, and intentionally feeding certain wildlife species can result in enforcement action. Scottsdale's code enforcement division responds to complaints about wildlife attractants such as unsecured trash, pet food left outdoors, and deliberate feeding stations. The city partners with AZGFD for management of dangerous wildlife encounters. Many HOAs in Scottsdale have additional CC&R restrictions prohibiting wildlife feeding.
Creating conditions that attract nuisance wildlife may result in code enforcement warnings and citations. Feeding certain wildlife species may violate AZGFD regulations.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle wildlife feeding.
See how Scottsdale's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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