Surprise prohibits feeding wildlife that creates nuisance conditions. Coyotes, javelina, and other desert wildlife are common in Surprise neighborhoods near undeveloped areas. Feeding wildlife attracts dangerous animals to residential areas and is discouraged by Arizona Game and Fish.
The City of Surprise addresses wildlife feeding through nuisance ordinances. Deliberately feeding coyotes, javelina, bobcats, and other desert wildlife is prohibited when it creates a public nuisance or safety hazard. Surprise's rapid residential growth into formerly undeveloped desert has increased wildlife encounters, particularly with coyotes and javelina. Arizona Game and Fish Department recommends against feeding any wildlife. Unsecured trash, pet food left outdoors, and fallen fruit attract wildlife to residential areas. The city requires trash containers to be secured to prevent wildlife access. Bird feeders are generally permitted but may attract javelina and should be elevated. AZGFD handles wildlife management issues and can be reached at (602) 942-3000. MCACC handles domestic-wildlife conflict calls at (602) 506-7387.
Wildlife feeding creating nuisance conditions may result in code enforcement action. Unsecured trash repeatedly attracting wildlife may result in citations. AZGFD handles wildlife management, not the city police.
Surprise, AZ
Amplified music and sound in Surprise must comply with the city's noise ordinance. Amplified sound audible beyond property lines that disturbs neighbors is p...
Surprise, AZ
Excessive barking dogs in Surprise are addressed through the city's nuisance provisions and Maricopa County animal control regulations. Dogs that bark contin...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise regulates construction noise through its City Code. Residential construction is generally permitted Monday through Saturday during daytime hours. Su...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise is near Luke Air Force Base, which generates significant military jet noise. The city has no authority over military flight operations but maintains...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise does not experience snow and has no space saving or dibs system for parking. The desert climate eliminates the need for shoveled-out parking spot re...
Surprise, AZ
Surprise prohibits abandoned, inoperable, or junk vehicles on public streets and visible on private property. Vehicles without current registration or that a...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle wildlife feeding.
See how Surprise's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.