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Maricopa County, AZ Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

Few Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: Arizona Game & Fish Department →

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Key Facts

County Ordinance: No specific prohibition
AZGFD Guidance: Strongly discourages wildlife feeding
Desert Wildlife: Coyotes, javelina attracted to food
Nuisance: May trigger nuisance enforcement

City-specific rules exist: Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Goodyear, Tempe, and Scottsdale have their own wildlife feeding rules that differ from Maricopa County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Maricopa County does not have a specific ordinance prohibiting wildlife feeding in unincorporated areas. However, AZGFD strongly discourages feeding wildlife as it attracts coyotes, javelina, and other desert animals into residential areas. Intentionally feeding wildlife that becomes a nuisance may result in enforcement action under general nuisance provisions.

Full Breakdown

While Maricopa County has no specific wildlife feeding ordinance for unincorporated areas, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) strongly discourages feeding wildlife due to the significant public safety risks in desert communities. Intentional or unintentional feeding attracts coyotes, javelina, bobcats, and rattlesnakes into residential neighborhoods in areas like New River, Cave Creek, Gold Canyon, and Rio Verde. Under county nuisance provisions, property owners who attract wildlife creating a hazard may face complaints processed through the Code Compliance Division. AZGFD can issue wildlife management orders for habituated animals that become aggressive, which sometimes results in the animal being euthanized. Residents should secure trash containers, remove fallen fruit, and avoid leaving pet food outdoors, especially during evening hours when desert wildlife is most active.

Violations & Fines

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to feed coyotes or javelinas in unincorporated Maricopa County?

Maricopa County does not have a specific wildlife feeding ordinance, but AZGFD strongly discourages feeding wildlife. Feeding coyotes, javelinas, or other wildlife habituates them to humans and creates safety risks. Intentional feeding that creates a nuisance could lead to enforcement action.

Who do I call about aggressive wildlife in unincorporated Maricopa County?

Contact Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) for wildlife concerns. For immediate threats to human safety, call the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office at (602) 506-1000. For nuisance wildlife attracted by food sources, AZGFD can provide guidance on deterrence methods.

Can I feed birds in my yard in unincorporated Maricopa County?

Bird feeding is not prohibited in unincorporated Maricopa County. However, bird feeders can attract javelinas, coyotes, and rodents. AZGFD recommends using feeders that minimize ground spillage and bringing feeders in at night to reduce wildlife conflicts in desert residential areas.

How does Maricopa County compare?

See how Maricopa County's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.

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Maricopa County, AZ Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

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